6 Tips for Avoiding Scams on Craig's List

Craig's List can be a great resource for finding temporary or permanent employment, but it also serves as a feeding ground for scam artists and worse. Here's a guide to how to use Craig's List without getting scammed, from one such successful user. NOTE: THIS IS NOT A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE. PLEASE USE CAUTION IN ALL ONLINE ACTIVITY AND TRANSACTIONS.

1. Don't Be Desperate

If you approach Craig's List when you are desperate for a job, desperate for money, you are more likely to ignore your instincts and take an offer that is not genuine, or down right dangerous. If you're looking for permanent employment, Craig's List should be one of many tools you use. If you are looking for contract work, typically listed under Craig's List's "gigs," your financial security should not be relying on you finding the right listing. The gigs are great for extra pocket money, or even significant income, depending on your skills and location, but you should never be at the point that you feel you must respond to a listing for financial reasons.

2. If It's Too Good To Be True, It Probably Is

Is someone offering $2000 for a trip across town? Is a company promising $100,000 a year for someone to do minimal work from home? Here's a good way to measure it: Read the ad carefully, then imagine yourself in an office sitting across the desk from a prospective employer. Imagine the employer setting the terms that you read in the ad for the work that the ad describes. If you find yourself laughing at that employer, or mistrusting what he/she is telling you, then trust those instincts with the online listing as well.

3. Think Before You Send a Pic

I have seen listings from people asking for a ride or for a house cleaner. The lister asks for resumes, price quotes, and, oh yeah, a pic. If you're not applying for a modeling, spokesperson or theater job, be very very wary of those who want you to send a photo of yourself. Think twice, or thrice, before responding to that ad.

4. Deal Locally and In Person, If Possible

Honest people aren't going to object to meeting you in person. Scammers are banking on the fact that you want quick, convenient cash and don't want to bother with a personal meeting. Now, my successful Craig's List experience came from working through email with a gentleman across the country, but if he had decided to cheat me, there was nothing I could have done about it. If you do choose to meet face-to-face, please make the meeting at a public place. Let a friend know where you're going, or take a friend with you. Be smart, and keep yourself safe.

5. Never Spend Money to Make Money

This is an ancient art of scamming. Several opportunities may be posted, inviting you to buy this book/ program/ DVD that will give you the secret of quick, easy money. Others might try to convince you to invest in their business/ movie/ project. If you are considering spending money to make money, investing, or something of the like, insist on a personal meeting. If you really want to invest, deal with professionals.

6. Get Paid with PayPal

Cashier's checks and money orders and be faked. Checks can bounce. You will be held accountable. Cash can't (or shouldn't) be mailed. Getting paid through PayPal is the safest way for both you and whoever's doing the paying, and well worth the small commission PayPal takes out of it. All it takes is an email address and home address. They can pay with a credit or debit card, or have money taken directly out of their bank accounts. You can have the money deposited directly into your checking or savings account. It's easy and safe.

Visit Craig's List to find out more about scams and how to avoid them.