VA warns veterans and military families about job scams

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is warning veterans, service members and their families about job scams, which it said rank among the top predatory schemes they encounter. In an Oct. 28 post, the VA said military families are specifically targeted because of their access to benefits. Citing reports from the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau, the department said they suffered a higher median dollar loss than non-military consumers, with total reported losses of $584 million.

According to the VA, warning signs include unsolicited contacts who claim to have found a person's resume, offers of high pay for low hours and minimal experience, pressure to quickly provide personal information, vague job descriptions and requests to download unfamiliar software. The department said legitimate employers generally do not ask for upfront payment for equipment, training or background checks, and that scammers often request gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps or wire transfers.

The VA advised job seekers to use trusted sites such as usajobs.gov and careeronestop.org, to contact companies directly using known phone numbers or websites, and to research employers before applying. It also said scammers may exploit trust that comes from a shared military background.

The department said people who suspect fraud can report it at www.vsafe.gov or by calling 833-38V-SAFE.

Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Originally published by True News: https://truenews.bagleyenterprises.net/stories/545