Income scams: big promises, big losses

How it works

Most commonly, you receive an unexpected email about a job opening, sometimes impersonating a real company or school career office. After a fast hiring process, you get a fake check to deposit. The bank makes funds available within days, but you're then asked to buy gift cards, wire money to a supplier, or send funds for other business purposes. By the time the check bounces weeks later, you've already sent the scammer real money. Other variants promise high returns from investments, business coaching, or work-at-home opportunities using testimonials and success stories.

Red flags to watch for

• Unsolicited job offer via email after applying or posting a resume online
• Quick hiring process with little or no interview
• You're asked to buy gift cards or wire money from the fake paycheck before you can keep it
• Testimonials and success stories showing lavish lifestyles with no verifiable sources
• High-pressure pitch requiring immediate action or you lose the opportunity
• Promise of earnings far above typical pay for the work described

What to do

Do not send money or buy gift cards, even if you see the funds in your account from a deposited check. Instead, verify the job offer by calling the company directly using a phone number from its official website, not from the email. Research the company and job title online for complaints and reviews. If something feels rushed or too good to be true, walk away. Report suspected scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.