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05 Jan 2007 04:20 PM

Keywords that Flag a Scam

by Debbie LaCroix | More from this Blogger

I read a lot of posts asking "Is this a scam?" The answer is most often "yes" before even reading what they are asking about.

All scams have a similarity to them. Here are some keywords to avoid when applying for a job or business.

"This is not a scam." If they are not a scam, why do they feel the need to tell us? Can you see a job listing for an accountant. "Wanted, someone with experience in accounting, 5 years experience required. This is not a scam, but a legit job." They add this to try and brush over that voice of doubt that popped up when you read the ridiculous claims they are making.

"This is a legit opportunity." Again, if it is legit, it does not need to let us know.

"Easy money."This one should be an obvious red flag. However, it appeals to our want to make money while being lazy.

"No sales, no recruiting, no phone calls." OK, why do they need to tell us this. A job description should tell us what you will DO, not what your responsibilities will not be.

"Hiring a receptionist for our office. You will not do any accounting or have to run errands."

"Make $1000/$5000 a week!"This is just a ridiculous claim, especially when put in context of easy money. Why would anyone work hard if they could make $1000 sitting on their tush?

"No experience necessary."With a normal entry level job, this makes sense. However, when a company makes big claims and then puts "no experience necessary", it should put up your radar.

"No fees. Please send $10 for processing...." Whenever an ad puts no fees and asks for money in the same context (even if it is on a different page) I would walk the other way. This is a huge red flag.

"Put my money in your bank account..."However this is phrased, run! It is a very popular scam and very hard to trace. Never ever ever put someone else's money in your account and more importantly, never give out your bank account number.

If you are unsure if something is a scam, ask!

Learn more about Debbie LaCroix

Debbie is a work at home mom to two active boys. She is the owner of http://www.passiontosuccess.com, a website that offers tools , information, job listings and a message board to help you succeed.

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