Employment Frauds and Identity Theft



The global financial crisis caused a major impact on the employment rate not only in the United States, but across the globe. Because of these, the unemployed individuals continued to search for another source of income. With businesses mostly closing down, the easiest way one could get something to do is to get on the internet and search for the next money making endeavor.

While there are many legitimate career sites promising to help anyone land their dream job, and quite a number serving as mentors to those who would want to start home-based businesses, a certain percentage of this seemingly answer to every unemployed's prayer, are completely bogus and illegal, also known as scam.

Identifying an employment scam is easy. In order to prevent being the next victim of identity theft via employment scams, it pays to know how to spot it when you see or read one.

1. Legitimate employment offers do not provide claims of making easy money in a short time frame. Simply put, they do not promise anything too good to be true. In fact, real employment offers would normally emphasize their need of hardworking and patient individuals who can dedicate themselves to a certain job. They would specify the qualifications and requirements for the job posting. Monetary guarantees are more often than not, left undiscussed or simply not mentioned. So take it easy. Do not easily disclose your information. Being prudent helps a lot in identity theft prevention.

2. Employment scams are commonly associated with sales. They would entice the readers to keep on reading until finally they would mention a product or service they are trying to sell. The common target of these flashy advertisements and very promising advertisements are those desperate and eager to get money easily.

3. If uncertain, inquire the alleged employment company from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Federal Trade Commission (FTC). They have a source of legit businesses and can easily identify a bogus employment company. These organizations are also committed to ensuring that your information will be kept away from identity thieves.

It is important for every computer and internet user to be vigilant in fighting against identity theft. Regardless of the monetary amount involved, it is important to report any known scams that you might encounter. Identity Theft happens because some people do not use their sound judgment. Guard your information as much as you guard yourself. Never ever disclose your information that easily.