Work from Home or ‘Work from Hoax’? FCPD Gives Tips to Avoid Employment Scams

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Fairfax County, VA – FCPD’s Financial Crimes Unit is working to ensure community members have the knowledge to avoid employment scammers looking to take advantage of job seekers.

What is an Employment Scam?

Employment scammers post advertisements for fake jobs on common career sites including Indeed, Monster, Careerbuilder, social media platforms, and through emails. These fraudulent postings often appear legitimate at first glance, promising career advancements, flexible schedules, and high salaries. The objective of these scams is to get the victim to send money, divulge personal information, or provide free labor.

What Are the Signs of an Employment Scam?

  • The scammer is making threats or pressuring you to make an immediate decision.
  • The scammer requests that you open bank accounts and initiate bank wire transfers.
  • The scammer asks you to deposit funds into Bitcoin companies, such as Bitcoin ATM, Coinbase, or Gemeni.
  • The scammer requests you to withdraw funds in cash and send them via FedEx or UPS.
  • The scammer asks for access or passcodes to personal accounts including emails, bank accounts, CashApp, Paypal, etc.
  • The scammer insists on only communicating via text, WhatsApp, or Google Hangouts.

How Do I Avoid an Employment Scam?

  • Do Your Research: Verify the legitimacy of the company by looking up their information online, visiting the location in-person, or calling the employer through a verified contact number.
  • Be Cautious of Unrealistic Offers: Scammers will lure unsuspecting victims with offers such as high pay, immediate hire without interview, flexible hours or guaranteed promotions.
  • Never Send Money: Do not transfer money to a would-be “employer.” Scammers may deposit money into your accounts, likely from another scam victim, to convince you their business is legitimate. Never send money in the form of gift cards or cryptocurrency.
  • Never Pay Employers for the Promise of a Job: Legitimate employers do not ask you to pay to get a job through any forms, such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, PayPal, etc.
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Be sure to stay informed about common scamming techniques and consider discussing scam awareness with loved ones who may be susceptible to employment scams.  

If you suspect a scam or have fallen victim to one in Fairfax County, report it to FCPD’s Financial Crimes Unit through our online portal here. If you are unable to file a report on the computer, call our non-emergency line at 703-691-2131 to have an officer assist you with making a FiCOR report.

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