TalkScams Team — educational discussion
Fake-check equipment purchases in home-office jobs — warning signs and safety checks
TalkScams Team discussion starter — an educational scam scenario, not a victim account.
What is the scam pattern?
A work-from-home scam may send a check for laptop or office supplies and instruct the new hire to pay a designated vendor. If the check is fraudulent, the bank can reverse the deposit after the victim has sent real funds.
Warning signs to recognize
1. A hiring contact tells you to pay a third-party equipment seller from a new check.
2. A recruiter cannot confirm the employer through a verified channel
How to check or protect yourself
1. Ask your bank about any suspicious check and do not spend or forward the funds.
2. Verify the offer before supplying payment or personal data
Discuss with the community
How would you verify the recruiter and employer before sharing documents or money?
Original government advisory: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/05/college-students-avoid-scammers-while-you-job-hunt