4 Tips to Avoid Job Search Scams - FlexJobs

4 Tips to Avoid Job Search Scams - FlexJobs 4 Tips to Avoid Job Search Scams - 8 The thousands of flexible positions in the   database  are fully researched and vetted by our staff before we post them to ensure that our members have access to legitimate,  scam-free flexible positions. At the same time, helping online job seekers understand the importance of  avoiding job scams  is integral to mission. Often, online job scams raise red flags that can be quickly identified using some of the suggestions offered below. Here are four ways to avoid job search scams: 1. Familiarize yourself with the most-used scams. There are a few specific terms that are clear warning signs if youre trying to avoid job search scams. Some of the most commonly used phrases or job descriptions that pop up are: wire transfer, envelope stuffing, data entry,  multi-level marketing  or pyramid schemes, product assembly, and rebate processor. 2.. Use the right keywords in your job search. The phrase work from home tops the list of  dangerous keywords  that are associated with job scams, and is often coupled with the word free (as in work from home for free.). Better (and safer) keywords to use in your job search include remote work, telecommuting, and telework. 3. Be tuned in to the warning signs of scam jobs. Steer clear of jobs where the language in the posting seems hyperventilating or over-punctuated. Too many exclamation points!!!! and lots of dollar signs $$$$ are good reasons to stay away. For federal government jobs, one common red-flag phrase is previously undisclosed. All positions with the federal government are announced to the public, online and for free. 4. Protect your computer and email accounts. Unsolicited email accounts from addresses that are unknown to you, offering amazing work-from-home opportunities are an often-used tactic of job search scammers. Dont click on them, but instead ignore and delete them completely. Avoid  security risks  by having updated cybersecurity on your computer to safeguard your data. To identify and avoid job search scams, ask yourself these questions: Does the job sound too good to be true? Are you required to pay anything upfront to get the position? Does the job listing ask for your Social Security number, credit card or bank information, or other personal data? Is the employer identified in the job posting? If the company is identified, does it have a website with contact information, including email addresses and phone numbers? If theres an employer website, does it contain broken links? If you know the name of the employer, whats their  Better Business Bureau  rating and are there any complaints about them filed with the  Federal Trade Commission? Is email from the company sent from a free account like Gmail or Yahoo? Is the language in emails or on the company website (if it  has one) oddly written, or full of grammatical and spelling errors? Is the job description vague or undefined? Does the listing claim to offer a large salary in exchange for little or no work? Has the company offered you a job without interviewing you? If you believe youve been the victim of a job scam or that a job listing is fraudulent, knowing  what to do when scammed online  can help you minimize any damage to yourself, and help protect other job seekers from falling prey to the same scheme. Becoming familiar with our  comprehensive work-from-home scams list  is another great way to avoid job search scams. Browse Legitimate Online Jobs Adrianne Bibby  contributed to this post.