When searching the web for employment, be wary of fraudulent job postings and recruiters! Scammers are always looking to take advantage of job seekers and steal money or personal information.

Here are 5 common job scams to avoid:

1. Fake online job postings. Scammers will post fake job listings on social media profiles or online job sites. Many of these listings ask candidates to pay a fee to send in their application, and then never contact them again.
    
2. Fraudulent email job offers. Job seekers may receive an email from someone who claims to be a job recruiter who found your resume online. While some legitimate recruiters may reach out via email, always be wary of those who ask you for any sensitive information like Social Security Numbers or bank account information.
   
3. Remote Work Scams. As remote work jobs continue to gain popularity, fraudsters have adapted scams for candidates seeking a work-from-home position. Usually, they will ask job seekers to pay a registration fee to start the job, or they will “hire” the candidate and require them to submit a payment for their necessary remote work equipment, like a laptop or monitor. When they get the payment, they’ll cut off contact.
   
   
4. Interviews via Online Messaging Services. With this scam, fraudsters notify you that you’ve been selected to interview for a position. They’ll say you must sign up for a specific online messaging service to complete the interview – a service that asks you input personal information to get set up. The scammer can then access and steal that information.
   
   
5. Career Consulting Scam. Scammers know that a great resume is important for job hunters. This scam involves someone who claims to be a career consultant reaches out to offer help to improve your resume. They will either offer to improve it themselves or refer you to an expert – for a fee.
   

Keep your information safe by always researching the company that posted the position you’re after. Find their website and social media pages to make sure they’re legitimate.

Remember that legit employers will not ask for payment information to apply or conduct an interview, and they won’t ask for banking or personal identifying information until you’ve been hired.