Avoiding Job Scams
On episode 109 of Making Cents of Money, Avoiding Job Scams in the US, Kwabena Sarfo Adjei, an SMMC Support Specialist with Andrea's team at University of Illinois System Student Money Management Center, discusses how to avoid scams when searching for employment in the US.
University of Illinois System Student Money Management Center blog article supplementing this episode:
Adjei, K. S. (2025, February 25). Job search due diligence in the U.S. – Avoiding job scams. SMMC News & Events Blog. University of Illinois System.
Additional Resources
Federal Trade Commission Links
- Job scams explained. Overview of how job scams work, common tactics scammers use, and ways to protect yourself when job hunting.
- Job scams (examples). Detailed examples of job scams and what to do if you encounter one, including red flags and reporting resources.
- If you were scammed. Step-by-step instructions on what to do if you’ve been scammed, how to report it, and how to start recovering.
Other Helpful Links
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (n.d.). Common frauds and scams. FBI.gov.
A broad overview of scams reported to the FBI, including employment scams, with advice on prevention and reporting.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. (n.d.). License lookup. IDFPR.
A tool for verifying whether a job recruiter, employment agency, or financial services professional is properly licensed in the state of Illinois — helpful for confirming the legitimacy of job offers or financial opportunities.
Palmquist, K. (2025, January 28). 17 common job scams and how to protect yourself. Indeed Career Guide.
A practical guide listing 17 types of job scams with tips on how to identify them and avoid falling victim.
U.S. General Services Administration. (n.d.). Learn where to report a scam. USA.gov.
Official government guide on where and how to report various types of scams, including job scams, at the federal and local levels.
