Looking for work? Beware of these scams targeting South Carolina job seekers

The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs is warning people in search of work to be cautious in their job searches, as they could end up getting fleeced by scammers offering fake jobs.

Red flags that job hunters should look for include job postings asking for financial information like bank account numbers, as well as postings asking that fees be payed up front for certifications, training or background checks, a department release said.

Sometimes a scammer will send someone a fake check, asking them to deposit it in their account and then send some of the money back to the supposed employer, the department said. When the check bounces the victim is on the hook for the money they sent.

The department release mentions a recent victim who purchased computer equipment with her own money by scammers presenting themselves as an employer. They asked for her bank account information, saying they would direct deposit repayment for the money she spent on work equipment, but when they got it they took money from her account.

She lost over $4,000, the department said.

It is recommended by the department that job seekers research any potential employers. As part of that research they should look up the company and reach out to them directly, avoiding any contact information provided in the job posting as, if the posting isn’t legitimate, it might be a part of the scam.

“If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, walk away,” said a department press release. “Promises of quick and easy money are often more trouble than they are worth.”

If you or someone you know has fallen victim to an employment scam, or to learn more about them, the department recommends reaching out to them at (844) TELL-DCA (835-5322) or visiting www.consumer.sc.gov. Once on the website, you can click “Report a Scam” if you are a victim.

This story was originally published January 18, 2018 at 10:50 AM with the headline "Looking for work? Beware of these scams targeting South Carolina job seekers."