Beware of “Work-at Home” Businesses

Due to the effects of the Coronavirus, many people are looking for ways to stay busy or make money from home.    There are many “Work-at Home” jobs with the promise of earning big bucks fast, but unfortunately many are scams.

What to watch for:

• The company will ask you to invest hundreds or thousands in a starter kit, software, supplies, etc. up front.
• The company will mail you a check, asking you to deposit and immediately wire a portion of it back to them, or ask you to purchase prepaid debit cards and send them the information immediately. If the check is fraudulent and returned, you will be responsible for paying it back.

Ask questions:

• What tasks will I have to perform? Are any other steps involved?
• Will I be paid a salary, or will I be paid on commission?
• Who will pay me?
• When will I get my first paycheck?
• What is the total cost of this work-at-home program, including supplies, equipment, and membership fees? What will I get for my money?

Check out the company:

• Google the company name and review results. Also try adding “Complaint”, “Reviews”, or “Scam” along with the company name to see what others have to say.
• Contact the Better Business Bureau, your state Attorney General’s office, or a local consumer protection agency.

Contact your local InterBank branch if you have questions regarding a suspicious ‘Work-at-Home’ Business, or if you suspect a scam or fraud.