Fake job offer red flags
- A job is offered immediately without a credible interview or clear role details.
- It promises unusually high pay for little work or asks you to act before you can research the company.
- You are asked to pay for equipment, training, a background check, or a “starter kit.”
- The recruiter asks for identity, banking, or login details earlier than a legitimate process requires.
How to check an offer
- Search for the company independently and use its official careers page.
- Compare the recruiter’s email domain with the company’s known domain.
- Ask for a written job description, interview details, and a way to verify the recruiter.
- Do not pay to receive a job or deposit a check on someone else’s behalf.
Fictional example“You are hired today. Send your ID and $75 for a laptop deposit before the interview.” A fee before a verified hiring process is a strong reason to pause and check the company through its official website.
If you already sent information or money
Stop communicating through the suspicious contact. Contact your bank or payment provider if money was sent. If you shared an ID, password, or account details, ask the relevant provider about securing the account and consider identity-protection steps appropriate where you live.
How Is This a Scam? can help
Is This a Scam? is available on the App Store and Google Play. It offers an AI-assisted assessment of job messages, links, and screenshots that you choose to submit, with risk signals and recommended next steps. It is not a guarantee and does not replace a company’s official hiring process.
Check Before You Trust. Verify a job offer directly with the organization before sharing personal information or sending money.