How to Avoid Job Scams Online

Whether you’re looking for a part-time job, full-time role, internship, or remote opportunity, job scams are increasingly common, but often look legitimate. Scammers target college students and recent graduates so it’s important to know how to spot red flags early and protect your information.

A strong opportunity should feel professional, transparent, and consistent. If something feels off, it’s worth taking a closer look and/or reporting it to OCPD.

Red Alert: Job Scams Are on the Rise

Before diving in, here are a few quick warning signs to keep in mind:

  • Being asked to deposit a check, purchase a gift card, or pay for materials
  • No company website or only a generic email address
  • The employer won’t meet in person or verify a real business location
  • The job promises high pay for very little work
  • You receive an offer for a job you never applied to

Common Red Flags to Watch For

Many job scams follow predictable patterns like the ones highlighted above. Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

  • You’re asked to pay money upfront for training, supplies, or certifications
  • The employer requests sensitive personal information (bank account, Social Security number) before you’re officially hired
  • You receive a check and are asked to send money back or purchase equipment
  • The job promises high pay for little or no experience
  • You are offered a job without an interview or after only a text-based conversation
  • The recruiter contacts you unexpectedly via text message, personal social media, or a personal email account
  • The job description is vague or lacks clear responsibilities

If you notice more than one of these signs, pause before moving forward.

How to Verify a Job is Legitimate

Before applying, or accepting an offer, take a few minutes to confirm the opportunity is real:

  • Search the company online
    Look for an official website, recent activity, and consistent branding
  • Check the job posting source
    Apply through trusted platforms or directly through the company’s careers page
  • Verify the recruiter’s email
    Legitimate employers typically use a company domain (e.g., @company.com)
  • Look up reviews or reports
    Try searching “[Company Name] + scam” to see if others have flagged concerns, or review the company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB): https://www.bbb.org/all/about-bbb
  • Expect a real interview process
    Most legitimate employers will include a phone, video, or in-person interview

Taking these steps can help you avoid scams and build confidence in your job search.

Never Do These Things

No matter the job type, there are a few clear boundaries you should never cross:

  • Never pay money to secure a job
  • Never deposit checks from employers you don’t know
  • Never share your Social Security number, banking details, or personal documents before being officially hired
  • Never accept a job without speaking to a real person in an interview
  • Never rely solely on communication through text or messaging apps

If an employer pressures you to act quickly or bypass these norms, that’s a major warning sign.

Quick Scam Check

Before moving forward with any opportunity, ask yourself:

  • Did I apply for this job or did they reach out unexpectedly?
  • Does the company have a legitimate online presence?
  • Is there a clear interview process?
  • Am I being asked for money or personal information too early?

If one or more answers raise concerns, take a step back and investigate further.

What to Do if You Fall Victim to a Scam

If you realize you’ve been scammed, act quickly. Taking immediate steps can help limit financial loss and protect your personal information.

  • Contact your bank or credit card company right away if you shared financial information or made a payment
  • Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
  • Alert the job platform where you found the listing (such as LinkedIn or Indeed) so they can investigate and remove the posting
  • Monitor your accounts for unusual activity and consider placing a fraud alert if needed
  • Notify the Office of Career & Professional Development (OCPD) at ocpd@redlands.edu or visit us in person

The sooner you act, the better chance you have of minimizing any potential damage.

Final Thought

Scammers rely on urgency, excitement, and confusion. Taking a few extra minutes to verify an opportunity can protect your time, your money, and your personal information.

You can also use trusted platforms like Handshake to find vetted opportunities and connect with employers who are actively recruiting University of Redlands students.