FTC warns of new job scams on social media: honest employers never ask to pay

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) spotted a new scam gaining traction on social media. Fraudsters offer appointment-setting jobs, claiming you can work from home and earn big bucks, but first, you must pay in advance.

An appointment setter is someone who schedules calls for a company’s sales staff and potential clients to help them close deals. They’re typically paid an hourly rate but might earn bonuses based on the number of successfully set appointments.

However, scammers increasingly use this position to tempt potential victims online. Fraudsters promise very high income and say they’ll guarantee you a job once you pay thousands of dollars upfront for training.

The unfortunate truth is that a real appointment setting is just a normal job with a modest income.

“The truth is no one can guarantee you a job. Scammers may also look more like a business opportunity than a paid position, promising you potential clients, or suggesting you recruit new people to their “job” training programs, instead of setting appointments,” FTC explains.

Honest employers never ask to pay to get a job, FTC assures.

Before accepting any similar offers, FTC recommends taking the time to talk to someone trustworthy. Scammers often are pressing to make a quick decision or risk losing out.

“Do some research. Search online for the name of the company and words like “review,” “scam,” or “complaint.” Check with your state attorney general for complaints. No complaints? It doesn’t guarantee that a company is honest, but complaints can tip you off to possible problems,” FTC suggests.

Often, glowing success stories or testimonies are not true or typical and should be read with skepticism. Even positive online reviews may come from made-up profiles.

FTC asks to report suspicious job or business opportunities at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.