10 Warning Signs of a Fake Job Offer

Job offer scams are designed to target job seekers at their most vulnerable time. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a legitimate job offer and a scam. To help you stay safe, here are 10 warning signs to look out for when considering a job offer. If the job offer does not include the name of the company, it is likely a scam.

Be wary of any job offer that does not provide the name of the company. Be cautious when providing bank information. If you are asked to provide bank information before you have accepted the job, it is likely a scam. Consider opening a separate bank account just for receiving payments from your new job as an extra precaution.

Beware of jobs that require you to forward stolen goods.

According to the Better Business Bureau, 65% of fraudulent job offers involve warehouse redistribution coordinators or similar jobs that involve forwarding stolen goods. If the job offer is full of mistakes and doesn't make sense, it is likely a fake job. Employers want to know your background and suitability for a job, even in a tight labor market. Be wary of any job offer that requires you to pay money upfront.

Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay money upfront for any reason. Be cautious of any job offer that requires you to provide personal information such as your Social Security number or driver's license number before you have accepted the job. Be wary of any job offer that requires you to sign a contract without giving you time to read it thoroughly or consult with an attorney. Be cautious of any job offer that requires you to work long hours for little or no pay.

Legitimate employers will always pay you for your work and will not require you to work long hours without compensation. Be wary of any job offer that requires you to use your own equipment or supplies without reimbursement. Legitimate employers will always provide the necessary equipment and supplies for their employees. Be wary of any job offer that requires you to sign a non-disclosure agreement before you have accepted the job.

Legitimate employers will never ask you to sign a non-disclosure agreement before you have accepted the job.