Remote Job Scam Alerts
Remote job scams reached record highs in 2025. Here's how to spot — and avoid — every common scam pattern.
Six scams to watch for
Upfront equipment fees
A 'recruiter' asks you to buy a laptop, router, or software upfront, promising reimbursement. The check they send bounces and your money is gone.
Fake check overpayment
You're sent a check for more than agreed and asked to wire back the difference. The original check bounces days later.
Pay to apply or train
Legitimate employers never charge applicants. Any 'application fee,' 'training package,' or 'background check fee' is a scam.
Personal info phishing
Fake job offers requesting SSN, bank details, or copies of ID before any interview. Always verify the company independently first.
Recruiter from Gmail/Yahoo
Real recruiters use corporate domains. A recruiter at 'amazon-careers@gmail.com' is not from Amazon.
Crypto-only payment roles
Roles that pay exclusively in crypto, especially with vague responsibilities like 'community manager,' are often fronts for money laundering.