While more virtual jobs become available on the web, more scams are also appearing. Keep an eye open for these rad flags when communicating with potential employers seeking virtual employees. It could save you thousands of dollars and hours of time!
- Chat-only interview. Legitimate employers are more likely to conduct a live interview through a phone call or platforms like Skype. Be weary of chat-only interviews that consist of copy and paste messages.
- Sending information to a gmail account. If the job offer is real, you are likely to be asked to send information to a company email address, not a gmail.
- Not using cloud-based systems. Companies that are accustomed to working with virtual employees often work with cloud-based systems where employees can easily log in from any computer. A company that requires a new employee to purchase new software is a concern.
- Offering to send a check to purchase software. This absolutely draws the line. Never accept money from a potential employer.
In one unfortunate case, a woman based in the US did accept a check from a company that offered to pay for software and attempted to follow the company’s commands. She ended up losing $3,000 and had to invest time and effort into trying to obtain her money back.
Many of the “scam companies” will come off as legitimate, often using the name of a real company and even using real employee names.
Lauren Ell Marketing offers online marketing and virtual assistant services in the United States and Europe. Services include basic WordPress management, email marketing, social media management, PR work, customer service and more. Ell is particularly familiar with Palm Springs, CA, Riverside, CA, San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA. Contact Lauren by email or call (760) 820-2723.
