DiscovergleRecognising Fraudulent Remote Work Offers: Seven Warning Signs
Scammers favour part-time and remote jobs because the promise of easy, flexible income is hard to resist. These are the patterns to look for.
Key takeaways
- Genuine employers do not ask you to pay to start work.
- Be careful with unsolicited chat-app offers and pay that seems too good.
- Verify the company and the listing on official sources.
- Never share Singpass, OTP or bank logins. Call 1799 if unsure.
1. You did not apply
An unsolicited WhatsApp, Telegram or SMS offering a job is a major red flag. Legitimate employers rarely cold-message strangers with pay figures.
2. Pay is too good for the work
Hundreds of dollars a day to "like" videos, boost ratings or complete simple tasks does not match how real businesses pay.
3. You must pay first
Deposits, "training fees", equipment costs or topping up an account to "unlock" tasks are how the scam takes your money.
4. The interview happens only on a chat app
No company email, no video call, no named hiring manager, and no verifiable business in ACRA records.
5. Pressure and secrecy
"Reply in one hour", "do not tell anyone" and "limited slots" are designed to stop you from checking.
6. They ask for sensitive details
Never share Singpass, OTPs, banking logins or a full NRIC photo before a verified offer. Your bank account may be misused for money mule activity.
7. The job is not on official channels
Check whether the employer and role appear on MyCareersFuture or the company's official website.
If you have engaged: stop all payments, keep screenshots, call your bank, and contact the Police. For advice, call the ScamShield helpline at 1799. Try our scam checker.
Common questions
What should I do if I already replied?
Stop replying, do not send money, keep screenshots and speak to your bank. Call the ScamShield helpline on 1799 for advice.
How can I check a job is real?
Look for the role on the company's own website or MyCareersFuture, and contact the company using details you found yourself.