Scam Prevention
Spotting and Avoiding Scams
If something about a job or employer seems off, pause and do more research before applying or responding. Trust your gut, if an opportunity sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Similar to preparing for an interview, you want to research the business.
Ask yourself:
- Does the company have a legitimate, professional-looking website?
- Does the website URL match the company’s email domain?
- Is there clear contact information, including a physical address and phone number?
- Does the website clearly describe the mission, services, or products?
Verify an Online Presence:
- Search for the company online and compare the information across multiple sources
- Check LinkedIn to see if the company has an established page and employees listed
- Read reviews on Google and Glassdoor to learn about others’ experiences
- Research the company through the Boston Business Journal, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Commonwealth Corporate Database, Better Business Bureau, and Scam Advisor, if it’s a nonprofit organization, verify it on Charity Navigator
Common Scams to be aware of:
- Asking for personal information (such as your Social Security number or bank account information) before you’ve verified the employer and officially accepted a position
- Funky text or email addresses
- Asking to deposit or process checks, or send money back to an employer (leaving you responsible for lost funds)
- Positions offering high pay for little work
- Unsolicited job offers from jobs you never applied to, sometimes through social media
- Wiring money through Western Union, MoneyGram, a cashier’s check, money order, gift cards or similar services
- Asking to purchase equipment, gift cards or send money
- Employer or agencies requesting upfront “fees”
Take Immediate Action:
- Stop communicating with the individual or organization
- Contact your bank or financial institution
- Change passwords for any accounts that may have been compromised
- Save copies of emails, text messages, job postings, and other communications
- Report the situation to the Career Center for guidance
Need a second opinion?
Send the company name, job posting, and any related information to careercenter@emmanuel.edu. We’re happy to help you determine whether an opportunity is legitimate before you move forward.