Experts warn remote workers about 6 growing scam tactics

Remote workers face scams that aim to steal money, data, and personal details. These include phishing, fake jobs, vanishing clients, and ransomware.

Scammers exploit remote work settings to deceive professionals. Workers should verify transactions, use official communication, and stay alert.

An expert outlines eight scams targeting remote workers and how to avoid them. Awareness and caution help professionals protect themselves from financial and data losses in a remote work environment.

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“From fake clients to phishing scams, there’s a lot of fraud out there,” says Michael Moore, Chief Information Officer at Next Perimeter, a leader in cloud-first cybersecurity. Below, Michael explains the top scams to watch out for (and how to shut them down before they drain your bank account).

Here are 6 scams targeting remote workers

1. Phishing emails disguised as urgent requests

Scammers send emails appearing to be from employers, clients, or vendors, claiming that urgent action is required to update payment details. These emails often include company logos and professional formatting to appear credible.

Clicking on links in such emails may lead to fraudulent login pages designed to steal credentials or install malware. Experts advise against clicking on unexpected links or downloading attachments from unverified emails. Remote workers should verify financial requests by contacting the sender through official channels rather than replying to the email. Spelling errors and unusual phrasing can also indicate fraudulent messages.

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2. Fake tech support calls and messages

Scammers impersonate IT support teams from companies like Microsoft or Apple, claiming that a computer is infected with a virus. Victims are asked to grant remote access, allowing fraudsters to steal files, install malware, or demand ransom to unlock the system.

Legitimate IT support does not contact individuals unsolicited. Experts recommend avoiding engagement with such callers and reaching out to an official IT department or service provider to verify the claims.

Read also: How to avoid remote job scams: 10 red flags to look out for

3. Clients who disappear without paying

Freelancers sometimes complete work for clients who then refuse to pay and stop responding to messages. These scams often involve fake businesses promising high rates and tight deadlines before disappearing.

To prevent this, experts recommend having a contract in place before starting work. Requesting an upfront deposit, especially for large projects, can reduce the risk. Researching clients through online searches and LinkedIn can help identify red flags.

4. Ransomware attacks holding files hostage

Hackers use ransomware to lock a victim’s computer files and demand payment to restore access. Even if victims pay, there is no guarantee that files will be unlocked.

Regularly backing up work on an external drive or cloud storage can mitigate the risk. Strong antivirus software and avoiding suspicious links or email attachments are essential precautions. If ransomware is detected, experts recommend disconnecting from the internet immediately and seeking professional assistance.

Read also: How to find remote jobs that pay up to $50,000 annually

5. Impersonation on social media and websites

Scammers clone social media accounts and websites to impersonate businesses and professionals. They use these fake profiles to collect payments or personal information from unsuspecting clients.

Regular online searches for personal or business names can help detect impersonation early. Setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts and reporting fraudulent profiles promptly can limit the damage. Verification on social media platforms also adds a layer of security.

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6. Fake job offers that require upfront payment

Scammers advertise remote jobs with attractive salaries and minimal experience requirements. After hiring candidates, they request payments for background checks, training materials, or software before work can begin.

Legitimate employers do not ask employees to pay for job-related expenses. Experts advise against accepting offers that require upfront payments. Verifying a company’s legitimacy before accepting a position can prevent financial loss.