5 Common Work at Home Scams

5 Common Work At Home Scams

Knowing what to look for is key, but knowing what is common is another. Over the years I talked with many people that feel the same way I do and like me wanted to help others. Even online people that have been scammed or know someone that has, is speaking out. Me and Jane W. are on the same page about the very common scams that are still out there.

So you want to start a home business and work at home. Millions of people do. Unfortunately, there are also millions of people working at work at home scams.

You've seen the ads - they're in your newspapers, plastered across the 'Net, in your email. "Work at home! Make $3000 a week!" But the only ones who make money off these supposed work at home or home business opportunities are the scamsters. All you get is a dent in your pocketbook and disappointment.

In case you're tempted, here's how to recognize and avoid some of the most common work at home scams.

1. Envelope Stuffing Work at Home Scam

The pitch: You can learn how to earn money stuffing envelopes at home (for a small fee).

For your fee, you'll likely receive a letter telling you to place that same envelope stuffing ad in newspapers or magazines. You, of course, get to pay for placing the ads. The only way you will earn money is by bilking other people who respond to your work-at-home ad.

2. Assembly or Craft Work at Home Scams

The pitch: You will make good money working at home by making things which the company will then purchase from you.

The way this scam works is that you pay (sometimes thousands of dollars) for materials and equipment upfront. You might have to buy a sewing machine from the company, for instance and/or parts for whatever item you're assembling. Then you make the items - but the company never does buy them back from you. None of your work is ever "up to standard" according to them.

3. Computer Work Work at Home Scams

The pitch: You will make money working at home doing data entry and word processing tasks. All you have to do to get started is send in a small fee.