Hiring Hoosiers is an initiative from RTV6 that works to connect Hoosiers to employment opportunities, career development resources, training programs and educational paths. Learn more about Hiring Hoosiers and see new stories weekdays at 6 a.m. on RTV6.
INDIANAPOLIS — Rossie Thomas has a lot going on in 2020, and the last thing she wanted to add to her list was being the victim of a job-related scam.
Thomas can't wait for her first wedding anniversary in April, and she's looking for a new part-time job to earn extra money.
"What we get now pays for the necessities. This is money to live with--enjoy going out to dinner," said Thomas.
She uploaded her resume online, seeking a position as an executive assistant close to her south side Indianapolis apartment. Fears that her age would be a barrier proved wrong as she began receiving feedback.
"I've heard your skills are excellent. We think we can use you, but the location
is not what I'm looking or the hours are not feasible," added Thomas
Thomas was relieved when she received an opportunity to work from home.
She exclaimed, "This was an ideal job."
The offer involved her depositing this a check for $1,900 into her bank account to help a man claiming to be a businessman in need of a personal assistant. The job would pay $950 a week.
"Hold up, that's not right. If I'm working for you, where's the business account."
A new report from the Federal Trade Commission shows the average loss to this job-related scam is nearly $2,000.
In 2019, people reported more than 27,000 fake check scams nationwide, with losses exceeding $28 million.
"People that are hurting and need income and looking for a job for someone to throw this at them, you know it's really messed up."
"I might have deposited it, yes. They would have taken this $1900 and some."
Thomas reached out to RTV6, and we were able to advise her not to follow through with the offer to avoid being ripped off.
These scams follow a very common pattern:
The scammer sends you a pretty good looking check for, let's say, $1,900. The scammer requests you deposit the amount in your bank account and wire him a portion while you keep the rest as payment. The scammer now has money from your account. The check you received bounces, and the financial institution holds you responsible for the deposit.
By the way, the scammer is long gone, and there is no way to find the crook.
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