Scam

These days, there are more scams and shady things happening online than ever before. It seems like every week there’s a new way for someone to try and take advantage of people — and honestly, it can happen to anyone.

I almost fell for one myself when I was searching for a new job. I was using a popular job search website and had applied to several positions that I was qualified for. A few days later, I got an email from one company that seemed eager — almost too eager — to have me start working right away. They quickly began the “onboarding” process, and at first, everything seemed legitimate.

But then, things started to feel off. The “employer” told me I needed to purchase equipment — like a computer and software — from their “approved suppliers.” They even sent me a check that was supposed to cover the cost upfront. Something about it didn’t sit right with me.

Before depositing the check, I decided to call the bank to verify it. Sure enough, it was fake. The scam was designed so that I’d spend my own money buying equipment before the check bounced. By the time I’d realize it was fake, the scammers would already have my cash.

Luckily, I trusted my gut and caught it in time. I reported the fake recruiter to the job site and moved on.

If there’s one thing I learned, it’s this: if something feels off or seems too good to be true, it probably is. Take the extra minute to verify things, ask questions, and protect yourself — it’s always worth it.