Avoid fake job offers

Job scams are common, and many now start with a text message, a chat app or a "recruiter" on social media. Genuine employers follow a few simple rules. If an offer breaks any of them, stop and check.

Warning signs

• You are asked to pay for an application, training, a background check or a "starter kit".
• You are sent a check and told to deposit it, buy equipment or gift cards, and send back the difference. The check will bounce and you will owe the money.
• You get an offer after a text-only or chat-only "interview", or with no interview at all.
• The recruiter writes from a Gmail, Yahoo or Outlook address instead of the company's domain.
• You are asked for your Social Security number, bank login or a photo of your ID before you have a real, written offer.
• The job is to receive and reship packages, move money, or "rate products" or "complete tasks" for a deposit.
• The pay sounds too good for the work, or you are pushed to decide within hours.

How to check a job

• Find the role on the company's own careers site. On USA Jobs 24, the apply button always takes you there.
• Check that the email domain matches the company's website.
• Look up the company's phone number yourself and call to confirm the recruiter works there.
• Search the company or recruiter name with "scam" or "complaint".

If you have been targeted

Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If the scam happened online, you can also file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. If you sent money or shared bank details, call your bank right away. If you gave out your Social Security number, visit IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan.