How To Avoid Personal Assistant Job Scams

The internet has given job hunters several opportunities, but it has also made it easier for scammers to operate. Personal assistant job scams are one such scheme that has become more prevalent. These con artists frequently prey on people looking for flexible work schedules and make promises of high-paying jobs that require little effort. 

But if one wants to prevent being a victim of these dishonest schemes, it’s critical to exercise vigilance and employs the appropriate safety measures. As you read on, we’ll go over practical methods for avoiding personal assistant employment scams and stress how crucial it is to retain the services of an attorney from Abdi & Associates to protect your rights and interests.

What Is a Personal Assistant Scam?

A personal assistant scam occurs when a fictitious employer gives “clients” the option of sending money to entrepreneurs and other businesses located all over the world. The job opportunity can appear legitimate and come with a to-do list similar to that of a personal assistant. Potential workers might make meetings, buy gifts, or conduct errands. But when accepting jobs as a personal assistant, there are certainly a few important things to look out for.

Scams involving personal assistant jobs have increased in frequency as remote employment and freelance work have grown in popularity. Scammers prey on those looking for flexible employment prospects and entice them with alluring claims regarding high pay and flexible schedules. However, their main goal is to trick and take advantage of unwary job seekers.

Job scams in today’s society

More than 80% of job searchers said they are on guard or highly concerned about fraud on other job boards, according to a recent annual survey by FlexJobs. The same poll indicates that nearly 20% of job seekers have fallen victim to a job scam (up from 13% in 2016), and 22% of job seekers know someone who has.

Nevertheless, 15% of survey participants reported not falling victim to a scam because they were aware of the red flags. This demonstrates the significance of being aware of the red flags of job posting scams. 

Understanding the common signs of personal assistant job scams

It’s vital to be aware of the typical warning flags when trying to safeguard oneself from personal assistant job fraud. You can save time and possibly prevent being a victim of scams by noticing these warning signs.

If a job seems fraudulent–trust your gut

As with most circumstances in life, following your intuition is one of the greatest ways to prevent a job scam.

If you’ve been out of a job for a prolonged period and a fantastic opportunity appears to fall right into your grasp, it can indeed be tricky. But analyze the position and the manner in which you were treated objectively.

Unusual payment requests

Scammers frequently demand odd payment procedures, like requesting you cash a check and send them an amount of the proceeds. Regularly, legitimate employers refrain from involving their staff in financial matters that are irrelevant to their job duties.

Poor grammar and spelling

Grammar and spelling mistakes proliferate in scam job advertising. Genuine businesses typically take efforts to present themselves in a professional manner and apply tight quality control to their job postings.

Lack of a legitimate company presence

Do extensive research on the business before taking a personal assistant position. Scammers can utilize nonexistent business names or fabricate false company websites. To confirm the legitimacy of the business, search for verifiable details like a physical address, a contact number, and a web presence.

Anyone offering to send you a cheque for the money you didn’t make should be avoided

Never take a check from somebody you’re unfamiliar with. Once you transfer it to your bank, the funds automatically transfer to the scammer, leaving you liable for substantial fees and having to repay the bank for the fake check.

Job offers involving different countries

The con artist will frequently claim that the job entails sending money to banks or businesses outside of the US. But this isn’t necessarily the case yet it ought to be a red flag for you.

Quick response

A legitimate employer requires time to assess your resume before they get in touch with you for an interview. If you submit an application and get a prompt answer promising work, you’re engaging in a scam.

Investigating the Prospective Employer

It’s crucial to thoroughly study a possible employer before accepting a personal assistant position as a way to ensure that the position is legitimate.

• Checking for a physical address and phone number: Real businesses have real locations and phone lines connected to their operations. Internet search engines and online listings can be used to verify the validity of the contact details provided.

• Verifying the company’s online presence: A trustworthy business will have a reputable web presence. Search for the company’s official webpage, social media accounts, and other reliable sources that attest to the organization’s reputation and presence.

Real Possibilities for Working from Home

Although they are out there, legitimate work-from-home possibilities might be challenging to locate. A true job application will demand credible recommendations, a portfolio of your prior work, and perhaps even some proof of your skills, so you can observe the distinction in the application process right away. Before reviewing your application, the hiring manager should request your job history or a resume of your past employment. 

To ultimately evaluate whether the job is a genuine opportunity for employment, it ought to involve a phone or video chat appointment with a real person. If neither of these reliable evaluation requirements is met, it’s probable that you have been dealing with a scammer.

Avoiding sharing personal information

It’s crucial to employ caution while disclosing personal information so as to safeguard oneself against personal assistant job schemes.

Don’t easily disclose sensitive information like your social security number, bank account, or photocopies of your IDs. Reputable employers often ask for this information after making an offer and filling out the necessary employment paperwork.

Moreover, communicate with prospective employers via secure channels of communication. Your personal information may be protected from getting into the wrong hands with the use of verified platforms, secure chat apps, and encrypted emails.

Why you should work with a lawyer from Abdi & Associates

It is advisable to seek legal advice and protection when navigating the complex environment of personal assistant career possibilities. 

Abdi & Associates may evaluate employment agreements, spot potential frauds, and give you advice on how to best defend your liberties and interests. Our knowledge of employment law guarantees that you will have qualified assistance in resolving any potential legal issues.

A lawyer from Abdi & Associates also gives you access to our extensive knowledge of employment law. We can assist you in evaluating job offers, negotiating contracts, and resolving any legal matters that might arise while you’re working.

Reach out today for your employment case

Scams involving personal assistant jobs are becoming more common in today’s online landscape. It’s critical to be on guard and take precautions to avoid falling for these schemes. You may lessen the likelihood of being duped by knowing the typical indications of personal assistant employment scams, investigating prospective employers, communicating clearly, and protecting your personal information. Additionally, working with an attorney at Abdi & Associates adds another level of defense, guaranteeing your rights and interests are upheld during the hiring process.

You may contact us at (888) 772-2529 or via our secure form online. Let us be of assistance to you today.