Consumer tip: Don’t pay for the promise of employment

Employment opportunity listings can be found everywhere but as a rule of thumb, never pay for the promise of employment. Legitimate employers and job placement agencies don’t charge to hire or place you. If a third-party agency is involved, the potential employer typically compensates the agent.

How can you tell if a job lead is a scam? It is a “guaranteed” position, with benefits. The only thing left to do is pay a fee — for certification, training materials, a background or credit check, or maybe a recruitment or placement fee. Don’t pay it. The job posting is probably a scam, and the job is not likely to materialize once you pay the scammer. Sometimes scammers also ask for your financial account information under the guise of setting up direct deposit. Don’t share sensitive financial information before starting work. Scammers can use this information to withdraw money from your account or steal your identity.

More information at marincountyda.org or 415-473-6495