Overseas Job Scams

When you are out of work, finding a new job can be extremely difficult. While you are searching, it is important to beware of overseas job firms listing a toll free number for you to call for more information. You could be getting more than you bargained for.

When you call the toll free number that is listed in the advertisement, you will be given a description of the available jobs, the salaries, and the benefits. Many of these offers promise high pay, good benefits, and free travel adventures. In some cases, when you call the "800" number you will be given a "900" number, at an often undisclosed cost, to call for more information. Make sure you understand the charges of this call before you make it.

Before you get caught up in the excitement of an exotic job prospect, you should be aware of some safety tips established by the Florida Attorney General's Office.

Be Wary Of Guarantees That Don't Ring True.
Employment services cannot guarantee you a job; they can only help you find one. If an overseas employment firm tells you the job is yours for the taking, and quotes a specific salary and benefits, the job probably does not exist. Overseas job scams are not bashful about what they promise to their victims- salaries in excess of $50,000 per year for general labor positions, benefits such as paid housing, medical and dental coverage, food and relocation expenses. In this case, ask yourself whether it is realistic that countries with high unemployment would allow such jobs to be given away to people other than their own citizens.

Read the Contract First.
If the contract says something different from what the salesman told you, you may be held to the terms of the written contract. Do not believe a salesman who assures you that the contract contains "standard stuff we have to put in there," and "not to worry about it." The contract says what it says for a reason, and was written for the company and not for you. If you have already paid and have had a change of heart, read and follow the cancellation rights under the contract. Get all promises in writing.

Find Out Who Is Required To Pay The Fee.
You should be wary if the overseas job firm asks you to pay an advance fee before you get a job, especially if the company requests payment be made in the form of a money order or cashier's check. Most reputable employment agencies only charge you a fee once you have been placed, and even then, the new employer often pays the fee.

Wait Until You Make Any Moving Plans.
Overseas job firms frequently tell their victims that they can start packing their bags, put their houses up for sale, or sell their cars just to make their claims seem more realistic. Do not begin to make any moving plans until you have heard from the employer- preferably in writing- that you have been accepted for the job.

Research The Companies.
Contact consumer agencies such as the Better Business Bureau, thee Attorney General's Office, and local consumer agencies in the county where the company is located to determine if there are complaints or legal actions pending against the company.

Some additional tips from the Better Business Bureau:

• Be very skeptical of overseas employment opportunities that sound "too good to be true".
• Never send cash in the mail, and be extremely cautious with firms that require a money order. This could indicate that the firm is attempting to avoid a traceable record of its transactions.
• Do not be fooled by official-sounding names. Many scam artists operate under names that sound like those of long-standing, reputable firms.
• Avoid working with firms that require payment in advance.
• Do not give your credit card or bank account number to telephone solicitors.
• Read the contract very carefully. Have an attorney look over any documents you are asked to sign.
• Beware of an agency that is unwilling to give you a written contract.
• Do not hesitate to ask questions. You have a right to know what services to expect and the costs involved.
• Do not make a hasty decision. Instead, take time to weigh all the pros and cons of the situation. Be wary of demands that "you must act now".
• Keep a copy of all agreements you sign, as well as copies of checks you forward to the company