Students targeted in employment scams

According to the Better Business Bureau website, criminals are targeting students with fake job offers through emails sent to their college accounts. The employment scam criminals deceive their victims using four basic tactics:

1. Asking for bank account information for direct deposit of a paycheck
2. Requiring a Social Security Number and other personal information to “process paperwork”
3. Requesting payment up front, supposedly for a background check, drug testing, and training
4. Payment is only accepted through non-traceable methods

In recognition of this recent scam, Connecticut Better Business Bureau has some tips to protect yourself: Make sure it is real – Research the company’s telephone number and website, rather than using information provided in the email or over the telephone. Contact the business directly to verify whether there is an opening. Ask for specifics – If a caller contacts you, ask the name of the company he or she claims to represent. Watch out for on-the-spot job offers – Businesses don’t hire by telephone without a face to face meeting. Only provide personal information once you receive a written letter of employment. Be realistic – When a job ad says no experience is required, offers easy hours and generous income with minimal work, that’s a major red flag. As the adage goes – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Students and job seekers can find additional resources and tips at bbb.org.]]>