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Internet Scams: Too Good to Be True

By Josh Simon
January 17, 2013 Updated Jan 18, 2013 at 12:03 AM CDT

PEORIA, Ill. -- The Better Business Bureau is warning those looking for work to remain skeptical about online ads that seem too good to be true.

The BBB receives calls almost daily reporting scams that involve internet job listings on sites like Craigslist.

One problem is emails that offer the recipient the chance to make money if they cash a check and send the phony employer a portion of the money back. In reality, the check is bad and there is no money.

Better Business Bureau Vice President Jessica Tharp says there is one sure sign of an email scam.

"When you start corresponding with someone who isn't legitimate or they're offering you a job or they trying to create a relationship with you," Tharp said. "One of the biggest keys that we find is the grammar. The spelling is atrocious, and the grammar is all over the place. It doesn't make sense. If something doesn't sound right to you, that's one key to look for."

Tharp also says that if an offer you receive on the internet seems too good to be true, take your time and check it out before giving anyone your personal information.

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