Online Employment Scam Strikes Hudson Valley

New York State Police warns the public of online employment scam.

The New York State Police is warning the public after a report of a scam involving an online employment website. The scam involves an online interview, using Google Hangout or another social media platform, for the position an applicant is seeking.

When offered the job, the applicant is informed the company will be sending them a check to purchase equipment for their new position. Using that money, the applicant then uses money orders to pay for the supplies, depositing them into an account for a specific vendor, named by the employer.

Once completed, the applicant finds the original check was fraudulent and there is no actual vendor. The New York State Police offer these tips to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.

Be aware most companies will not conduct interviews by chat over social media platforms.

Always be suspicious of any company telling you to deposit checks and obtain a money order.
Do research on the company, the phone number or website they are using to contact you.

Anyone who feels they could be the victim of a similar scam is asked to New York State Police at Middletown and speak with Investigator Stephen Malone at 845-344-5300

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