While there are plenty of legitimate virtual opportunities for those who want to work from home, there are plenty of scams as well. Fortunately, there are resources you can use that can help during your search. The BBB (http://www.bbb.org) or Rip Off Report (http://www.ripoffreport.com) are sources you can use online to learn more about a company before applying for a job.

By searching for a company using these databases, you will be able to obtain basic information about a company including how long it has been in business, if the company exists under a different name, and if there are any complaints about the company or its employees filed by others looking for a work-from-home opportunity.

Finding Legitimate Employment

In order to find legitimate virtual jobs, you need to take the time to research all companies you are interested in working for. Even though an ad may seem legitimate, it may not be. It is only by researching the company will you be able to determine if you're being scammed.

The first step is to visit the company's website. If they don't have a website, then you should conduct a company search on the BBB or the Rip Off Report site. In addition to company profiles, you can also read customer or employee complaints and learn if the company is being sued for any reason.

After visiting the company's website, you should call the department that's hiring and ask questions about the position. If the hiring manager is unavailable or doesn't provide you with much information, it's best to find another opportunity. When companies hire for virtual positions, they're prepared to most questions applicants have. Many hiring managers are able to send you additional information via email or regular post as well.

Never give out personal information over the phone when speaking with a hiring manager. If they ask for your social security number or bank account information, it is probably a scam.

You can use the BBB (http://www.bbb.org) or Rip Off Report (http://www.ripoffreport.com) to file a claim if you have been scammed or if you want to warn others. Filing a claim is easy and free. Your claim will be investigated and the results posted on the websites.

Questions to Ask about Virtual Jobs

Questions to ask when speaking to a hiring manager include the following:

• What is the company's web address?

• How long have they been using virtual employees?

• What is the starting salary?

• Type of experience needed

• Types of training provided

• Application process

While many potential virtual employers require you to pay for a background check, never send money upfront. If you are asked to send money upfront, you should consider the position to be a scam. Legitimate companies never ask for money from their applicants before they have started the application process. If a background check fee is required, it is usually near the end of the actual interview process – after you have spoken with company representatives and completed skills tests. I'll say it again – never pay a company an upfront fee just to “apply” to work for them.

Once you've determined the company to be legitimate, you should proceed with the application process. Finding a virtual position that allows you to work from home can be a dream come true. But when looking for a home-based job, it is best to vigilant and research all companies so you don't become a victim of the latest scam.