Welcome to my blog! My name is Arwen Taylor. I am a professional writer, web designer, blogger, an aspiring Renaissance Woman and owner of Omnithinker, Inc - an independant publishing company. I believe that Life is a University that we enroll in so that we can learn valuable lessons. On this blog I explore my inner world, the world at large and the space that connects them.
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Previously I had written about my car breaking down. Well that incident really set me back. Because I wasn’t able to continue to commute back and forth, I had to quit my job. Since then, I’ve working hard at finding an office job in my area which has not been easy. The town I live in is not that big. In fact, most of the people that live here commute to D.C. So the limited job availability coupled with the fact that whatever job I get must be accessible by the bus system has made the job hunt a bit of challenge.
So when I saw the following advertisement on Craigslist for my area, I thought I had lucked into something good.

Click image to get a larger view
However when I emailed the person for more information, I received the following form letter in reply:
Thank you for your interest in the Office Administrative Assistant
position. In order to get the most accurate information and to
expedite the hiring process, I have created my own online application.
Please complete, at the link below:http://blueribbonjobsearch.com/joboffer/register.cfm?jobpositionid=27058
Upon review, you will be contacted within a few days.
We are a strong supporter of education. Hence, if you are currently in
school or are interested in furthering your education, please indicate
so on your application.Thanks,
–
Shon Johnson
My first reaction was one of annoyance. If there was a special application they wanted me to fill out then why not post that information in the ad? It didn’t make any sense and I should have listened to my instincts. But of course I really need a job and despite this peculiar quirk, this seemed like a pretty good lead.
So I went to the site and was presented with this form:
Click image to get a larger view
I filled out the information and immediately regretted it when I clicked “Continue”. I was lead through a thinly veiled attempt to collect information for marketing purposes. I immediately cancelled out but realized that it was really too late for that. They already had my name, address, phone number and email address.
I tried not to worry about it but my worry increased when I went back to Craigslist and answered two different employment ads and was sent the same exact email. The only thing different was the email address I wrote to and the name of the person I had contacted. One email had a different web address in which to fill out the “Application”. This time instead of blueribbonjobsearch.com it was thecareerwizard.com.
I decided, then, to do a little detective work so see what I was up against. This led me to the Internet Solutions Corp Watch Website. The blog is filled with posts of all the domain names owned by the Internet Solution Corporation and there are links to information about the company such as this video on Youtube:
The video and other information I found on the internet has led me to believe that I had been lured into a phishing scam perpetuated by two men named Alec Defrawy and Alex Finch, the owners of Internet Solution Corporation. Phishing is what scammers do to collect personal information such as your name, address, email, passwords and even financial information. It is my opinion that Internet Solutions Corporation is using their numerous websites to collect information from applicants to resell to third parties. Based on information I have found on the internet, I do not believe that the jobs that they post exist. More worrisome, according to the video, some people have even been called in for interviews where even more personal information was collected and resold.
The situation is both frightening and disheartening. Especially as today I received the following automated response:
Our records indicate that you applied for the Office Administrative Assistant position at Blue Ribbon Job Search . We have received your application and feel you meet the initial requirements for the position. I would like to recommend you as a qualified candidate.
If you still have an interest in this position you may visit our website at: http://blue-ribbonjobsearch.com/careers2.aspx?email= &id=blueribbonjobsearch2nds06262008&jb=371006
When you open the application page you will be asked for a login id. Please use the following login to access the site:
Username: myemailaddress
Password: passwordWhen you login you will be asked to verify some information and some additional information from you to help in the final hiring decision. Once you complete this process your application will be forwarded for final review and you will be contacted directly.
Regards,
Sue Ann Merritt
Human ResourcesCareer Network, Inc.
P.O. Box 618305
Orlando, Florida 32861-8305
When I went to the address, it was an obvious attempt to confirm the information I had already provided to them as well as to harvest information about the people in my network in the form of personal references.
Based on information that I have read on the internet as well as my own experience and a one on one interaction with a “company representative” by the name of Alex Simon, I do not recommend that anyone do business with Internet Solutions Corporation, VeriResume or any of their “affiliate” websites such as thecareerwizard.com. I consider myself to be a pretty intelligent woman and I am embarrassed and angry at having been taken in by them.
The only advice that I can offer is to do your homework when applying for jobs advertised on the internet. One of the things that tipped me off is that each one of the advertisements for these jobs used Gmail addresses. That’s not to say that every business that uses Gmail is not trustworthy, only that you should be a little more cautious when replying to their ads.
Get as much information as possible about the job prospect before submitting any of your personal information to apply for it. If possible, get a phone number and address where you can actually talk to someone. If they don’t want to give you any of this information, walk away.
If something doesn’t feel right, go with your gut. If the person sends you to a web address to apply for a job, do a Google search on the website’s address and see what comes up. That’s how I was able to find information on the Internet Solution Corporation. I typed in thecareerwizard.com and was led to the Internet Solution Corporation Watch site. The one thing about scammers is that they always have leave a trail of victims and chances are good that, like me, someone has written about their experience to prevent others from being taken too.
If even one person is saved from being victimized by Internet Solutions Corporation, then I’ll consider this episode well worth the embarrassment. Be safe.
Additional Information
Taking the Bait On a Phish Scam - Washington Post
Looking for a job? Phishers are looking for you by the Washington Post
Better Business Bureau Report on Internet Solution Corporation
Something’s VeriRotten with VeriResume
Complaints regarding calls from VeriResume
List of domain names owned by Internet Solution Corporation
Criminal profile for Ayman El-Defrawi
I have received another email regarding a position I applied for. This time I was directed to connectioncareersnow.com. This is another domain owned by Internet Solution Corporation. Be on your toes.
A few days ago I received another letter telling me to apply online, this time at myemploymentspot.com. This company also goes by the name of VeriResume.
Additionally, I received an email from a Mr. Alex Simon threatening to sue me if I did not take this post down. I refused. I have edited the post to clearly indicate that this is my opinion based on my experience with this company and additional information from credible sources. You, as the reader, are free to make up your mind as to whether or not you wish to do business with them.
I will continue to update this post as more information regarding this company comes available.
Thank the editor. Buy me a coffee!
Just copy and paste the code in the box. It will look like this:
Craigslist Job Scam-Internet Solutions Corporation
100 Comments
That’s for sure. Craigslist can be a good resource, however, because there really is no regulation, it has become a haven for scammers. I consider it a lesson learned and won’t repeat that mistake. I certainly hope other people will be smarter and research before applying for those jobs.
I’ve never used Getafreelancer. I have signed up for Elance and they allow you to fill out a profile although I think people have to contact you through the Elance site.
That is weird that you have to contact the Admin to have your account deleted. Maybe it’s a security thing.
Thank you. Just replied to their initial reply to me (where they ask you to sign up online) with a link to your article.
You’re very welcome. It’ll be interesting to see what happens.
I too had the same experience that you did HOWEVER, the ad turned out to be true. I completed the application and didn’t hear anything and in this market it is very discouraging. I received a second email with a login and password to complete just as described above. Then a lag in time again (all of this taking place over the course of 5 weeks)…Just 4 days ago I get a phone call from “said company” who wanted to schedule an interview. I went on my interview and was called the next day with an offer on the position. It seems that maybe they are a middle man for the position? I don’t know - my link was thecareerwizard.com too but I report for work on Monday with a true and real company that admits to doing business with Career Network. Maybe there is light or maybe I’ll just be thankful that I was lucky…
Well I’m glad you had a good experience with them Ms. Barber. I suspect that you are one of very few who have.
I will keep you posted and updates as I start my new position tomorrow! Thanks
It would be most interesting to see the Mr. Alex Simon threat mail plus full headers. Please?
You’ve got me curious… I’ve gotten the same eMails as you… I want to find out if it’s legit, but I don’t want to risk giving out any more information than I already have…
Thanks for blogging on this though, it gave me a heads up!
@Tammo,
I’ll be happy to email you a copy of the email exchange between me and Mr. Simon at the address you provided.
@Courtney,
You’re welcome. Personally, after my experience with the company I would never do business with them again. However, if you do, proceed with caution. Good Luck!
YES!!!! THANK YOU for saying SOMETHING! You cannot find any confirmation for this company online (not easily anyway). So Career Network should verify who they truly are to ‘users’ so there are no questions. I was given the exact same impression because I figure -if I give you my resume once, shouldn’t that be enough?
All I’ve received are more & more emails to apply and calls from universities. A call or non-automated email from Career Network would be much more desirable.
I am so glad you posted this because I live in the DC area too and I’ve fallen for this three times. Now I get random calls on my phone and weird emails. I am really stupid for falling for this. Thanks again…I remember when I was really suspicious and I asked for more information about the position, and I didn’t get a call back. It’s been about two weeks.
Thank you Arwen for writing about this phishing scam, even after Internet Solutions Corp threatened to sue. I felt pretty stupid when I figured out that the company was not legit and immediately put my credit on alert, just in case. It’s so disgusting that this Web site preys on people’s desperation for a job.
I did list mt references in my “application.” Should I be concerned that they will receive these spam-y calls and emails as well?
Ugh. I felt icky when I saw that the second similar posting took me to the same kind of supposed part of the application, so I did a search and found your post. I’ll be following along to see how it turns out for others, but I bet I’ll start getting calls on my cell phone, and that will really annoy me after years of not having that happen. What a waste of time, too, thinking it was legit. Thank you for putting this out there.
Everyone is correct, this is a scam I worked there….beware!!!!!!
[...] Craigslist Job Scam-Internet Solutions Corporation [...]
Okay, I just fell for this stupid scam. I am a very bright and well educated woman. I just left my cheating boyfriend and needed a good paying job. So, I emailed my resume and in a matter of hours I got an email back. I started filling out the online app. and started to get an uneasy feeling about it. By the time that clicked out I think it was too late. I had many great references on my resume. I hope they will not have to deal with my stupid mistake. I just can’t believe I got into this mess. I sent a reply to the email address stating that if I or any of my references receives spam mail or phone calls I will take extreme action against the company that he works for. I have already sent an email to BBB. I have no clue what to think now.
It actually isn’t quite a fishing scam. Instead it is a way for them to generate online leads for a variety of companies, with online education being the most likely. If you look at the sign up, you will see they run you through a path asking about education, vacation, benefits, debt, etc and they then sell you as an opted in lead to various companies.
Still no job is likely, and you will be contacted relentlessly from anyone you opted in to, feeling that you had to say yes to get to a job interview.
Thank you for the valuable information you provided regarding Internet Solution Corporation.
I have been receiving emails at least once a week from them for months now.
Now I know who to attempt to track down and email them as much as they email me.
Please do keep us posted on any developments you have regarding this matter. I will try and pop in here to update you as to my progress as well.
Best regards,
Fred W
I filled out the “application”. What should I do as a form of damage control?
Hi Niomi,
I would say that if you listed references, I would notify them that they may receive spam or calls from these people. If you start getting calls from them, and from what I read on the internet most people have, tell them that you want to be put on their do not call list. They are operating in the US so legally they have to do this or face a hefty fine.
It wouldn’t be a bad idea to keep an eye on your credit information as well.
Hope this helps. Keep me updated as to how it turns out.
Here are 2 I got lately—-
Thank you for your interest in our open position! In order to expedite
the hiring process, please fill out our online application at the link
below.
http://thecareerwizard.com/joboffer/register.cfm?jobpositionid=44289
Attach a resume, if available. Once completed, your information will
be forwarded to management for review. We will contact you with in 24
hours.
We are a strong supporter of education. Hence, if you are currently in
school or interested in furthering your education, please indicate so
on your application.
– Tom Reardon Hiring Manager
===========
In order to get the most accurate information to expedite the hiring
process, we have created our own online application.
Please use the link below to complete:
http://citicareercenter.com/officejob/
Upon review, you will be contacted within a few days.
We are a strong supporter of education. If you are currently in school
or are interested in furthering your education please indicate so on
your application.
Thank You
Bruce Burns
Citic Telecom HR
I feel absolutely embarrassed as well. I have applied to a few jobs on Craigslist and found it odd that none of them had responded back to me. I too am an itelligent woman with many years of experience in the fields I applied for. Can anything be done to confirm this scam. I’m so so upset!!!
Hello, can you please tell me exactly what number to call or who to e-mail to be put on the “Do Not Call” list or to get out of spam? Like Niomi, I also need to perform some damage control, as I just got my first phone call from this number. Should I simply call it back? Will the BBB actually do anything about this? Please help me out. Thanks so much.
Yeah, I’m feeling pretty dumb about falling for this scam like most people who commented. I never give out my cell number and felt uneasy doing it this time. I should have done more research on this. Thank you for your informative post. It’s also kind of nice to know that there are some people in the same boat as me.
i just received a call from 314-735-4450 i was waiting after i answer but then i lost signal and the call droped, but i got coureous and started searching this number, wher did it came from , who it was, any and then i found all of this. please advise me about what to expect, it has been the only call, but i don’t want to really suffer a big fraud by not being informed. tell what can i do to prevent all this and how deep am i in this. thank you
I too fell for this scam. I too am educated and intelligent. I too felt like a complete idiot!! I completed the “application” several months ago. Thus far I have only gotten two calls for interviews. My experience has been that when they call, however, there is only a recording telling to wait for a very long time. I’m convinced it is the same company because (1) I filled out the same application here and (2) I did research on the internet that confirmed my fear. I can’t say that I’ve been inundated with spam though. I remember that I opted out of the information for continuing education and such. Just in case, this is how I handled my situation.
First, I contacted Experian.(one of the credit Bureaus) and told them to put a fraud alert on my social. You may contact any of the three bureaus, as they will notify the others. The number to experian is 888-397-3742.
I then contacted social security and I had them open a file. I don’t think this does a whole lot, but if anything does come up later on, it will be easier to prove.
I also ordered a copy of my credit report to make sure there wasn’t anything on there that wasn’t supposed to be. Fortunately, nothing was. Unfortunately, I’ve done a pretty good job of messing it up myself. But that’s another story! By law you are entitled to see your credit report once a year, free of charge. Go to freecreditreport.com or call experian. Also, you can pay experian a fee (I think it’s like $30) for six months, to monitor your credit. They’ll email you immediately if any accounts in your name are open and if anything changes regarding your credit.
I changed my passwords too. Not all of them, just that were related to my email address and possibly could be figured out because of that (like my paypal account that uses my email address as my screen name).
You may want to contact the BBB yourself. Also, I’ve been keeping track of the numbers and times and dates they have called to “verify” information. You may want to call the local BBB to file a complaint as well.
This may seem a little over the top and it probably is, but it really doesn’t take that long and it’s easier to prevent something happening then to try to clean it up afterward.
I normally would not have fallen for such a thing, but I was stressed about money and very sleepy and not thinking clearly when I filled out the app. I mean really…WHY would they need to know my cell phone carrier? What an idiot I felt like. However, as a good friend of mine pointed out, these people make a living by coming up with these schemes. That’s all they think about. I think it’s really important that we don’t blame the victims.
Hope this helps.
I’ve also gone to websites to fill out “applications” that appear to be very similar to the one Arwen included in her post. The first time I included my cell phone (stupid move) and I still get occasional calls/text messages from the same phone number.. saying they are a verification company. In reality, the caller is trying to sell you on further education. Subsequent applications, I opted out for all offers, and did NOT include my cell.. I instead duplicated my home number because it won’t take the application without a phone number there. If you put your cell # in there, you open yourself up to constant text messages and text message charges. With your regular phone number, you only have to put up with phone calls.. usually dead air if they tried to text you on your land line, but occasionally from someone who says they are a verification company, and who mentions further education, starting your own business, etc.
As far as the references go, my references actually received letters in response to my most recent application asking them to go to the careernetwork site and fill out a reference form, which they did… the forms did not ask for any personal information… just questions like 1. how long have you know Ms.Young, 2 Personally or professionally 3. How would you rate Ms Young on a. punctuality b. dependability c. honesty d. creativeness e. work ethic etc.. and there was a box for them to make any comments on suitablility for the job description given. They said that the questions seemed to be legitimate questions asked when someone is looking for a reference. BUT, that was only one time out of 4 applications.
I believe that whatever company is hosting the application site, may actually forward your information to companies that hire, but that they also “sell” contact information to higher education sites, insuarance companies, get rich quick scheme sites etc, to finance their own websites. That’s my take on the situation. We’ll see if I actually get an appointment for an interview or not. I know that my references gave me glowing reports, so if I don’t get a call it wasn’t because of a bad reference.
i’m sorry that you had to deal with all this… but thank you for posting your story… you saved me a headache.
Thanks for letting us know about this shady corporation. I too completed an application for a job via Craigslist, and I found this site through EveryCall.us here http://www.everycall.us/number/3147354450
Apparently the telephone number (314) 735-4450 has been reported by users at EveryCall.us as associated with these scammers, they called me to try to phish more information that I left out on my application!
I really wish I had seen this post last night BEFORE applying for a job through Craigslist. I feel so sick right now just knowing that I fell for such a horrible scam. I received the one from thecareerwizard.com, and unfortunately and regretfully filled out the application, including submitting my resume. I should have known better when it asked for a cell phone number that it wasn’t real. On the bright side, if there is one in all of this, I believe my cell phone is part of a “do not call” program and my email has fairly decent spam control. Also, if I receive any further emails regarding the posted job, I will happily just ignore them. I’m just glad it didn’t ask me for my social security number.
A few weeks ago I had sent an email as everyone else has about a job listing on craigslist. I received back that same email. Today I also received a phone call from this number: 314-735-4450. I thought something was a little off so I looked up the phone number and it lead me to this page. I am so mad that I fell for it. Is there anything now or is it too late? I tried calling back the number, but obviously it doesn’t work.
The website I was sent to is this: http://career-network.com
There is no information on that website. GRRRR.
I got a call from this number today too, assuming its from the application I filled out similar to the ones mentioned here. Pathetic the lengths some people will go to in order to get sales or just a name to put on a list to sell.
I’ve been sent to there site over and over but I’ve always not filled out the form because your phone # is required and they offer to text you updates, I always avoid anything offering to text me because I don’t want a huge cell phone bill.
that and the education thing just seemed fishy, like if I filled it out I’d start getting junk mail from lots of online collages.
I decided to do a search on this company and found this site, I’ve added it to my stumbleupon picks to help spread the word about there scam.
p.s. I’m on the west coast and your on the east and yet the same jobs are listed.
Thank you so much! I have sent my resume to a few postings on craigslist that have directed me to careerwizard. I trusted my gut (why do they need to know my cell phone carrier???) and didn’t fill out the form, but I was 100% sure it was a scam. I really appreciate this posting. I will flag all that I find on craigslist!
I too fell for this, except I did not apply for anything on craigslist. I found a job on yahoo hot jobs and applied there. I too got a call from the 314 number and a similar email from the career network based out of Orlando Florida. It’s too bad I didn’t see this site before I confirmed the info. I feel sick knowing I fell for this scam. I’m normally smarter than this….
Embarrassing. I too, have fallen next in line for this scam. However; I did not submit an “application” through Craig’s List. I found a “position” through careerbuilder and Yahoo Jobs. Beware! It is such a shame that in this economy, where work is scare and people hungry scammers are taking us for a ride. Good luck in the job search!
I filled out one of these from Hotjobs. I was really skeptical (why so many questions about receiving texts/more info on online education?) but filled it out anyways, since the opportunity sounded great.
Then I looked at jobs in a different state (I’m looking to relocate) and found the exact same posting. That’s when I knew I’d been had. I indicated that I wasn’t interested in any of their offers so I hope I’m ok. I can’t believe these people! It is very hard and discouraging to be in a job search to begin with; then when the only people who call you back don’t even have a job for you?? WTF.
I applied for two jobs. Both different sites. Career-hub.com and career-network.com
both had similar formats to their websites. I found them on Craigslist as well. They already contacted my references. So sad. I feel so uneasy after reading this! Also I just received another e-mail from ruby jobs. Anyway, looks like they are getting busy trying to find new suckers. YikeS! I wonder if their “HR” department know about this scam.
I responded to an ad on the craigslist for ***LPM boutiques.
I received an email back that in order to expedite the process they made their own application
link http://www.lpmboutique.com/?04employment
I did not fill it out because I could not find a boutique under that name. I DIDNT FILL IT OUT
I found listings from them in portland, Irvine,CA Orange county,CA
IM WONDERING THOUGH IF SOMEONE FILLS OUT THE PAGE AND BROWSE/UPLOAD IF THEY COULD GO BACKWARDS THROUGH YOUR FILES!!!DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THEY COULD?
Thanks, Arwen for informing people I think someone should post warnings to people on these sites so noone responds to the scam ads
IM WONDERING THOUGH IF SOMEONE FILLS OUT THE PAGE AND BROWSE/UPLOAD IF THEY COULD GO BACKWARDS THROUGH YOUR FILES!!!DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THEY COULD?
I’m not sure I understand the question. Are you asking if they can access your computer via the file you uploaded? If so then the answer is no. They would need to install a piece of software on your computer in order to do that and as long as you didn’t download anything from their site then you should be okay.
Thank you to everyone who has commented. I’m sorry that these people are still out there scamming others and I hope one day someone will bring them to justice.
Thank GOD I did my homework but hey… I emailed them my resume at my first attempt after I read their ad at craigslist.
The ad is really interesting:
Trendy Clothing Store Needs New Crew Members for Grand Opening
Reply to:
Date: 2008-11-06, 11:47AM
Hey, are you looking for a flexible job that offers competitive pay, puts you in the middle of Chicago’s hip fashion/party scene and also allows for you to create your own schedule around your hours? Then we have the job for you!
Please apply soon as we are planning to open before Dec.1st as to rush in the Holiday shoppers.
Send resumes, questions or comments to chicagoapparel@gmail.com
Location: Chicago
Compensation: $13.75
Principals only. Recruiters, please don’t contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.
Original URL:http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/ret/908214741.html
Then.. I received an email similar to the one you received but redirecting me to:
http://www.lpmboutique.com/employment/?04
Noticed that the email and name is totally different, so I doubted it is right.
Just wondering, why they are doing this? Stealing SSN ? or collecting our data for … what?
Thank you so much, I live all the way in Detroit. I have been getting the same response after applying for jobs.
Thanks again.
I have also gotten the information too. I got the email from a company that is ‘too promising’ and looks so real, I filled it out(was a sucker at that time), and found it was a scam. Now, I’m getting less and less scams since I chewed them out for the fake jobs. Why in the world do people do scam for money when we are out looking for Work??? I have been off work for the past 6 months now. Thanks for the heads up!! Dave
I filled out two applications for two different jobs posted on craig’s list. The first application wanted me to further my education, so I clicked on an online college, that contacted me and almost had me send them $50.00 for their application fee, which I didn’t have, so I declined. He kept calling me after that to see if I was ready to apply. I finally told him I found another college that had what I wanted. The second application (identical to the first) I declined the further education link. One of the company’s contacted one of my references, because she called me to get some info from me for them. I can’t remember if I gave them my SS#, but I’m pretty sure I didn’t, because we are always being told not to ever put that on the internet. From now on, I will not be putting my cell, SS# or Driver’s Licence numbers on the net. I am on the east side of the country, but keep getting calls on my landline from the west coast, but they never say anything. Well, thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences and I will start flagging these job posters on craig’s list.
I know what to look for as well and flag them as soon as I see a gmail address
Also please note that Robert Half, Manpower, and many many more are running bogus ads on here as well. They not only make commission on placing people but they make commission by how many ads they put on line as well. So don’t waste your time.
Wow, that is very scary and I have to admit, I have applied to many jobs on craigslist and I got a lot of those emails back telling me to clink on the link and apply with more information on those different sites and I did.
These people are sad, taking advantage of other people that are in desperate need of a job right now, there are so many people out of a job and they dont care, they will take advantage of that in a minute.
Oh another one of those sites is careernetwork.com, when you click on that link, the same form will come up to enter all your info on there.
These guys SUCK ASS and they should be prosecuted because what they are doing should be illegal and the sad thing about it, is that its not.
I applied too for a teaching assistant’s job on craig’s list and got those emails from career network but i declined to the debt and college questions and that seemed fishy. They already have my contact info and mt references what do i do about it? I don’t have a credit card thank god but can they use my info for malignant purposes? I was desperate for a job and i can’t get anywhere and this was the first and only job to contact me back on craig’s list. That 314 number hasn’t called yet what should i do when they do?
Hi Deb,
This question has come up several times. I honestly don’t think they will do anything more with your information than spam you (via email or phone). However, it is better to be safe than sorry.
If they call, tell them that you want to be removed from their calling list. By law they have to do this. Do the same with any email they send you. If they continue to send you spam, flag it as spam in your email client.
Keep an eye on your credit records. Even though you probably didn’t give them your ssn, like I said before, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
If you listed any references, give the people you listed a heads up so they, too, can asked to be removed from an telemarketing calls they may receive.
If you do have any problems above and beyond spam don’t hesitate to report this company to the attorney general and the FCC.
Hope this helps. Let me know how it goes.
Hi ~ I have received several of these same ads on CL and as soon as I went to the page, I saw one of the fields requesting my date of birth. This was for an HR position. Having been in HR and knowing it is against the law to ask a prospective employee for their date of birth prior to employment, I knew something was up. It was enough for me to reply to their e-mail with that notification and haven’t heard from them since.
Thanks for the alert and keep up the great work!
Thanks for the info. I replied to the craigslist ads and sent my resume even though they were a gmail address. Some people are unprofessional. However, I did not fall for the filling out the form part of the scam.
The sites didn’t look right and I got auto responder replies immediately with links to them. A quick search turned up this site, which confirmed my suspicions.
Thanks again
This company is doing this nationwide as I was duped by an advert for a vet office receptionist position on CL philly. I filled out the initial form from the link sent to my email from a rep named “Brian Byrne”, however I didn’t fill out anything else beyond that. The link in the email was to thecareerwizard. A whois search shows that the domain record was created on 5/22/08 with domain servers of:
NS19.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.190.10
NS20.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.144.10.
Foolish me, I wasn’t sure that my application was processed so I clicked on the link and filled out the initial form again and it directed me to career-network. The domain record for that site was created on 7/18/08 with domain servers of:
NS79.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.190.40
NS80.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.144.40.
I had sent an email replying back to the sender wondering if my application had been processed. Obviously the cell phone carrier field and the drop-down menu regarding furthering your education should have made me not fill it out.
I received a separate email in response to a different position I sent a resume for on CL and the “HR rep Keith Grivaldi”, a fake name used for this ploy or a different ploy, sent me a link to thecareersupply.com. The email was too fishy so I deleted that. I did a whois search for thecareersupply.com and the
domain record was created on 12/5/08. Very Fast, indeed!
The domain servers are:
NS79.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.190.40
NS80.WORLDNIC.COM 205.178.144.40.
So people be cautious if they see a link for any of those websites as they are appear to all the same.
I totally just fell for the much-maligned LPM Boutiques” scam. Here I am desperately looking for a job, and was absolutely taken advantage of. Sigh. My question is, can they do anything other than spam me? No financial information was exchanged.
Hi Cameron,
As long as you didn’t give them you ssn or any other information they could possibly use to steal your identity or something, then you should be fine. So far all they’ve is spam me.
I think I’ve fallen for the same LPM Boutiques scam that was mentioned above by Cameron.
I found a listing on craigslist for “Vintage Boutique Needs Sales Associate (South Philly).” I emailed the contact email which was a gmail “phillythrift@gmail.com.” Soon after I was emailed the following text:
Thank you for your interest in our retail position. In order to get
the most accurate information to expedite the hiring process, we have
created our own online application.
Please use the link below to complete
http://www.lpmboutique.com/employment/
Upon review, you will be contacted within a few days.
We are a strong supporter of education. If you are currently in school
or are interested in furthering your education please indicate so on
your application.
Thank You
Harison Ehram
LPM Boutique
I gave them my resume, cell number, email, and address. What should I expect? Spam? Phone calls? Please let me know. I’m so worried. All I wanted was a rad job for spring semester…
I think this just happened to me!
agghhh it sucks, especially with this economy where u are looking to find jobs, jobs you probably wouldnt take but have to… sux!!!
a
I just emailed my resume to the same “vintage thrift boutique” job ad on craigslist as Cameron. Good thing I googled that boutique name because I’d never heard of it. Unfortunately they now have my name, email, and phone number…
Since I have found the link was a spam, I have NOT replied or give them my ssn, nor give them my phone #. I haven’t heard anything from them since then. They must gotten tired of me. Once I filled out a fictious name(just for fun to see what happens…lol!!), they finally got my message that I am NOT dumb to fill out the spam info. That is what I do with spammers, give them a piece of my mind. They give up easily. I’m very careful what I do these days.
@ Dianca & Melissa
So far all they’ve done is spam me via email. However, I still signed up for a credit monitoring service (truecredit.com) because you just can’t be too sure these days. Just to give yourself peace of mind I do recommend signing up for the service even for just a few months to be sure.
@ Flo
It’s awful how these scammers take advantage of people during these hard economic times. Something has to be done to shut this company down.
@ Dave H
Good for you Dave. If we can discourage even one scammer then the effort is well worth it.
Yep, happend to me as well. I completley recognize their application every time they send me a job offer. I haven’t recived many calls, or emails asking me for info. Its still sucks though! I have my credit checked by Citi and I’ll request a report soon. Be careful outhere!
I unfortunetely have now experienced the LPM boutique scam. I at least had the foresight to Google LPM before filling out the “application”, but I did send them my resume, which contains my email & cell, in my first contact with them. If you don’t fill out the application, will you still get hit by them? Also, can they do anything with your past job history? I did mark the reply email with the request to fill out the application as “phishing scam” in my email box after reading this, so will this do anything?
It’s such a shame that in times like these that people stoop so low to take advantage of others like this. It’s sickening. Thank you so much for at least doing your part & alerting people to these jerks & saving those you can!
Hello,
like many mentioned above, I too was scammed by the infamous LMP boutique (Chicago.) I saw their add on Craigslist last night and I thought the idea of working there seemed very intruiging so I went ahead and sent my resume (which includes my name, e-mail, address, and phone number)and very naively I also uploaded my resume through their website. But I noticed when I uploaded it, my computer said that there was an “error” but shortly after I still recieved the verification e-mail..Has that ever happened to you?
I guess my biggest fear is that they will use my name and information for fraud/identity theft purposes and that scares me beyond belief.
What do you think I should do? And how would you go about reporting this?
LPM Boutique is nothing to do with Internet Solutions Corporation. Internet Solutions Corporation recently became Three Stars Media, and trades under the name Career Network and Destiny Careers.
Vickie,
I fell for this same scam some months ago. I opened an alert on my credit file and had a look at evertyhing on there. This happened to me about 6 months ago, and thus far, nothing has happened to me, aside from a few “spam” emails. I honestly think that is all they were looking to do anyway. You may also want to open a file with the Social Security administration. Look at my post on September 23. That’s how I handled my situation and I think that is about all you can do. Just be vigilent.
Thank you for writing this post!!! I’ve been laid off and started job hunting and applied to couple of Craigslist ads… and I started getting these online application asking about improving your education, etc.. something isn’t right… sigh now I have to be a bit more careful!
They take advantage of people who really need a job in these tough times. I just got laid off two months ago and thought I was in heaven when I saw the job oppurtunities with great pay. But when their reply asked that I click on a link to supply them with my credit report, the red flag went up. What kind of employer would ask for a credit report before even have met you and having filled out the appropiate paperwork and application. I responded with a similar comment and never heard back. This hurts people who really need a job and the honest employers that really need workers.
Thank you! I was just about to respond to an ad, felt weird about it and googled their email address when your post came up. You’re awesome and saved me a headache.
Have a good day, ok!
the name of the owner is Ayman Ahmed El-Difrawi and its in orlando florida on haiawasee rd in the metro west area. its a total scam, i know trust me. its a scam to get you to join online schools like university of phenix, kaplan, aiu
I know these guys, trust me they are such a scam. They only use a scam as far as it can take them. There based out in orlando florida in the metro west area, next to publix. They change names more than you can imagine. The whole company knows its a scam but the owner does his best to keep them pumped thinking there doing a something good. They ask for the cell phone and other info to text you or call you so they can make you believe that your in consideration for a job and than they hit you with would you like to try online schools. UOP, AIU, or Kaplan. They then try to transfer you to the schools where they pitch you some BS. Once they find out that your not interested they hang up or you never here from them again. They use craiglist bc its free and they send multipy ads out everyday by the thousands in each city in the counrty about. they still ads from other real ads and leave out the compnay info. thats why when you look at the ads its very general and they use gmail accounts alot. stay away from them and beware. its a scam. they dont care and they get paid by the leads they create for the online schools.
Jennifer and Nikki. Like I said earlier, when I get the scams like this, I make up names to give them scammers a very hard time. Its my way of having a little fun. I’m still looking for a good paying job. I am getting help from a Vocational Rehabilitation. They are a huge help!!! Hope you guys can get help as well. Good luck!!
Thank you for this information. I applied for several jobs on craigslist earlier this week. I got two of those emails that you described back. I haven’t clicked on them or filled them out, but I did send them my resume in my initial email, which I’m regretting now! At least your post saved me from going any further!
Too bad I didnt do my research first. I didnt figure out the scam until they wanted references page. Thought that was asking too much for a job search site.
Thanks for the info. I hope this page helps spread the word and helps shut this organization down.
The scam has changed names again. Three Stars Media http://www.threestarsteam.com suddenly has become Three Stars Team http://www.threestarsteam.com , or simply Three Stars from looking at the site.
Seems like the result of an unexpected incident. The site was registered january 21 2009. Within three days they completely removed the word ‘Media’ from the site They removed the major part of their online press releases containing the name ‘Three Stars Media’. They are being replaced by copies of the old ones, without the word ‘Media’. Even seen one from January 21. Currently still in cache. http://www.google.com/search?q=%22Company+Forum+Now+Open+for+Three+Stars+Media
Correction: Three Stars Media http://www.threestarsmedia.com
Jennifer and Tammo, I went to University of Phoenix just out of curiousity to see how much it would cost just to go to class. Wow!!! The price was a bit high and they do have a good sales pitch. I wrote to them saying that I am not interested. Haven’t heard from them yet. Thank you Jennifer for letting me know about the scams here from University of Phoenix. Tammo, Thank you for sending the link to the Three Stars Media site. I’ll keep an eye open. Dave
HAHAHAHAHAHaaaa. I like most am desperate for a job so bought in to furnishing the info. Just yesterday I went in and filled out the references dealy that was asked for in the second email. As I was in this site reading about all the scams my cell phone rang. It was from a person at ‘Employment Select’ wanting to verify the info I furnished.. It was going to take me 30/45 minutes to verify. I asked if they were representing ‘Career Network’ and was told yes. I told them how interesting their timing was since I was currently looking at web sites telling me what a fraud Career Network was. I was given all the sell about it not being a rip off and then told “OH, it looks like we’ve already verified your information so I’ll go ahead and send your application to the employer. Thanks for your time. Good bye.” You be the judge. BEWARE!!!!!
Thank you so much for posting about this! I have been looking for jobs on Craigslist, and never having any experience with this before, I fell victim to their scams on more than one occasion. I have yet to receive any phone calls, but the e-mails have already started. If it weren’t for your post, I may have been dumb enough to give in to more of their scams. I feel just like you - embarrassed that I gave into this! I’m a smart girl, and this is very not cool. Thanks so much!
Sad to say, I too fell for this scam.
Will I be in any trouble, having given my resume and contact references?
Being new here and not having any job at the moment, I don’t have any credits as mentioned here. I do have my SSN (thankfully, I didn’t give that out) given to me recently.
When I found out this was a scam, I immediately informed my references about it.
I guess I’m just scared that my information might be used by someone else because I was so stupid not to do my homework.
So, am I in any trouble? Will I be a victim of identity theft? or credit theft or whatever it is you guys call it?
thanks for any help you may provide.
Mon
Thanks for the comments, I received this in my e mail
Our company is currently looking for a motivated Shipping and Receiving to join our team, and, after viewing your resume I would like to speak with you about this opportunity. Based on your qualifications I feel that you would be a perfect candidate for this opening.
The ideal candidate will be career minded and have a “can do” attitude! Candidate will work a Monday through Friday, 7am to 4pm schedule. The Shipping and Receiving position offers competitive pay beginning at $15/hour plus exceptional benefits to match!
, I have only extended this opportunity to a few people as I would like this position to be filled soon. Please view our website through the link below to complete an online application and to view a more detailed description of this position regarding qualifications, benefits, and more!
*Removed URL/Contained Commenter’s Email Address*
I am beginning the interview process shortly so I look forward to hearing from you today and hopefully working more closely with you!
Best Wishes,
C. Benn
Hiring Manager
Thank you so much for posting this. I have a friend that got an email from them saying they read her resume and to send in her info. I work for a Top head Hunting Firm and told her if she gets an email about jobs send them to me first. Looking for info about this company i came across your post and your a God sent. Im happy you did not take this down. Its helping a lot of people. Like i said i work for a Top job placement firm with real jobs for Managers and Business development and I know what scams are all about. I hope people research before sending any info to anyone. Check to see if they have a linkedin profile and if there is no phone number to call them at you know its a scam!!!!!! Id be happy to help anyone on a real job hunt you can see im a real person not a scam. My linkedin profile to contact me is http://www.linkedin.com/in/missyhickcox
If you have any gut feelings about a job thats email to you i have all the resources to check them out.
Be careful People. There out there scaming BIG time. Some even change you to find you a job. You should NEVER have to pay for help finding a job.
Again, thank you all for your comments regarding this issue. I will be doing a follow up article soon about what you can do to protect yourself if you have fallen for this scam.
Be safe out there.
Thanks for this article, but unfortunately I already filled out the first part of the application page with my personal information. I googled their address because it was weird that they didn’t tell me where the position was located. Instantly I realized my mistake when the first search result was “Rip-off Report: Keith Grayson Executive Assistant Orlando Florida”. I am extremely frustrated because I should have trusted searched their company before I filled out the first part, and I even uploaded my own resume with my references information on it! Is there anyway that they did not receive my information because I literally closed it out after I had been taken to the second page asking me if I was interested in pursuing furthur education while working.
Thoroughly pissed off.
PS. This is the website I went to: http://impeccablecareers.com/
I am currently looking for a Bookkeeper. As a Full Charge Bookkeeper you will be responsible for preparing financial statements, processing account receivables and account payables, managing bank and general ledger account reconciliations. You will also be preparing quarterly tax filings, performing month end closings, and tracking fixed assets by preparing depreciation schedules. We offer $20.00/hour plus great benefits, which we will discuss during your interview.
to avoid being flooded with applications and responses, I have only extended this opportunity to a few qualified individuals. Your online resume caught my attention, and I would like to start the interview process as soon as I possibly can. I am hoping to hear back from you today, if at all possible. By clicking the hyperlink below, you can view more information about the position, benefits offered, our company, and send in your application as an interested applicant.
I am interested in applying for the Bookkeeper position.
I hope to receive your application later today!
Best of Luck,
C. Benn
Director of Human Resources
Career-Network, Inc.– P.O. Box 618305– Orlando, FL 32861-8305
Never trust a guy who does not give you his full name in a professional correspondence
Well, I did one smart thing today! I too just arrived at craig’s list, so happy about all the interesting work available!
But…I did NOT send a resume, since they did not give the name and location of the company…did not include phone number…it’s like, if they’re vague I’m vague too!
But I do feel a bit embarrassed nonetheless, and yes, disappointed, I need a job, and would love to have one of the bogus jobs offered!
I am replying to Amy’s comment. My e-mail was almost exactly the same–word for word. Thank goodness for you guys out there!! Two things about my e-mail was that the job stated it was $25/hr and the other thing was when I went to fill out the application on-line..the part that read “do not attach whole resume” just work history information…it wouldn’t let me fill in the box…so, I thought something wasn’t right!! But I also have been getting calls from schools from a application I submitted on CareerBuilder.com..the only way to apply was to answer if you wanted to further your education and they present it as if every employer wants to hire someone that wants to further their education!! What a lot of bunk!!
It’s incredible how long this scam has been going on. Law enforcement seems to think that this is a civil matter. When does it becomes non-civil.
Mr. Difrawi uses his employees to fabricate affivadits. Take the case of Terri Lynn Bears. She filed an affivadit in Les Henderson case that stated she purchased Les’ book. Since she lived in Florida and purchased his book, by law Mr. Henderson have conducted business in the State of Florida giving the state jurisdication.
In the case of ScamFraudAlert.com, Mr. Difrawi had Terri Lynn Bears and other employees filed affivadits stating that the owner of ScamFraudAlert.com send emails to them defaming Mr. Difrawi. Absolutely FABRICATED.
Mr. Difrawi continues to RUN HIS OPERATION WITH TOTAL DISREGARD TO THE LAW or WHAT IS CONSIDER NORMAL BUSINESS PRACTICES. THAT IS NO DECEPTIVE EMPLOYMENT OFFER THROUGH JOB ADVERTISEMENT. THIS IS THE “CORE” OF HIS EMPIRE OR OPERATIONS.
These are all over Craigslist Texas, from the small town areas especially, if it does not have a name, phone and real email address forget it.
If you notice a fake like I did, just report it to Craigslist please. I used my trash mail and replied to one of these fools and told them that I reported them and here is my response:
We have had a problem recently with craigslist applicants sending fake resume attachments which are actually downloadable viruses, causing our network to crash. After our third network collapse we have now been forced to change the process of uploading your resume. If you want to be considered for the position you MUST follow the steps below for us to view your resume and consider you for the position.
Complete BS! ^^^^ Job Seeker beware!
Another POP UP SCAM!!!
Our Human Resources Department recently received the online application you submitted for the Marketing Administrative Assistant - Up to $50,000 position with Popup Careers. Their review of your application has led them to conclude that you meet the initial requirements for employment in this position. They have forwarded your application to be considered as a potential candidate for the Marketing Administrative Assistant - Up to $50,000 position.
If you still have a desire to be considered for this position, please indicate so by visiting our website at the following location: http://popup-careers.com/careers2.aspx?email=youremail@gmail.com&id=popupcareers2nds03032009&jb=03032009
Information:
If you EVER have to click a advertisement, or you place your email in a box before anything else, or click a Google ad, It is a scam!
As you all should know, Adwords and Adsense are there to help webmasters make money by people clicking these ads, if you were made to click an Ad before and after anything else, someone is making money off of that click.
Thank You
Admin
StaffSearchVideo.com
I am absolutely mortified. I got scammed by fraudulent jobs on Craig’s list. I even was so stupid to give my SSN!!! I was so excited to see all the job openings in the area my husband and I want to move to. These people are so hurtful. It makes me sick to my stomach to even think about it. What can I do to find out if my identity is compromised? Who do I contact? I tried freecreditreport.com, but they need my cc info. Is there anything I can do to see my report free of charge and flag it? Im so worried.
Regards,
Jane Doe
To answer your question on where to get a copy of your credit report and to correct the wrong information given. The site to get a copy free is not freecreditreport.com this site requires you to sign up for a monthly subscription to a credit watch program for $15 or so. It is actually annualcreditreport.com and if you don’t believe me Google it, it is the only govt site that was created solely for giving people access to their reports once a year free from all three credit bureau. Also in response to another post about getting on the do not call list, you can call 18885optout. This is something else you can google. I used to work for the credit card company in their fraud dept so I advised customers all day long of their protections and rights with issues like this.
Dang it, they got me too. CAUTION: THEY ARE GETTING MORE SNEAKY AND GROSS! I applied to a job posted on YAHOO’S HOT JOBS, asking for a Receptionist at a Pediatricians Office, making $17.50-$22.50 an hour. Yes, it’s a high pay scale, but some of these jobs want you to know medical terminology and do some back office, which is why I thought it was plausible!
- - -
Here’s the ad from Yahoo Hot Jobs:
Healthcare Receptionist: Company Confidential
Company Name Company Confidential
Job Category Clerical/Administrative; Healthcare
Location Los Angeles, CA • San Diego, CA
Position Type Full-Time, Employee
Salary $17 to $22.50 per hour
Experience 0-1 Years Experience
Desired Education Level High School
Date Posted April 23, 2009
We are looking for a receptionist for our busy pediatrics office. The ideal person is energetic, detail oriented professional. As receptionist your duties will include but not limited to answering the phone, transfer incoming faxes to the appropriate person, and data entry for payroll. Wage begins at $17.00 - $22.50 per hour with pay increases for hardworking employees. Our benefits package includes Health, Dental and vision coverage. Paid time off, Profit Sharing and 401k is offered after 60 days of continuous employment.
Qualified candidates will be contacted within 3-5 business days to possibly schedule an interview.
(Note, a link regarding the employer says the headquarters are in Newark NJ)
The link to apply took me to a funky domain…
http://jobsmatchnowemployment.com/joboffer/register.cfm?jobpositionid=121643
Now, I see that jobsmatchnowemployment.com has scam alerts of its own, if you look them up on Google. It gets better!!!
Then I got this: From PerfectCareerCenter.com (which forwards to Career-Networks.com):
Secretary opening available - $25
From: “Perfect Career Center”
Hi Heather,
We are currently seeking a motivated Secretary to join our team as soon as possible. The Secretary will be responsible for various office duties such as answering phones, sending and receiving all faxes, sending and receiving all mail, and ordering office supplies. This position offers $25/hour and includes full benefits, which we will discuss at the time of your interview.
Heather, to avoid being flooded with applications and responses, I have only extended this opportunity to a few people. Your online resume caught my attention, and I would like to start the interview process as soon as I possibly can. I am looking forward to hearing from you today, if at all possible. By clicking the hyperlink below, you can view more information about the position, benefits offered, our company, and send in your application as an interested applicant.
I am interested in applying for the Secretary position.
I hope to receive your application later today!
With Regards,
J. Howard
HR Director
If you cannot access the webpage through the link above, you can copy and paste the link at the bottom of this message into your browser.
See this link here? I put it in so you could click on it, and for my privacy, I decided to edit a few numbers on it. Well, when I did, it came up with a different scam job, looking for a Hotel Worker. Sheesh! They are reallllllly trying hard to scam people!
- - -
When I clicked on the REAL link on my email, discussing my healthcare receptionist job, it was basically the same as the hotel worker link you see above. There was no mention of WHERE the job was. At least with the pediatrician ad it stated Los Angeles/San Diego (which should’ve been a clue it was a fake ad — that’s a very far roundtrip distance and I doubt they have offices in both areas, or if they could, they would expect a person to work in both offices!)
On the “About Us” Page at Career-Networks.com, it says ANOTHER domain:
Career Network is owned and operated by Three Stars, founded in 2005 by two individuals working from home to start a job board. In four years, that business has grown into a thriving international company with over 500 employees worldwide.
We are one of the largest gateways to employment opportunities on the Internet. Thousands of resumes are posted on our network of job boards daily, cross-posted through multiple channels, portals and search engines. With roughly 1.5 million job seekers applying for positions through our network every month, we provide employers with the most exposure to their vacant positions.
For more information about Three Stars, please visit our site at threestarsteam.com.
What We Do
At Career Network, we pride ourselves on not being your “ordinary” job board. For employers, we add high-level organization and superior management to their recruiting process by aligning them with qualified individuals and providing a user-friendly back office system that makes managing jobs and applicants easy. They are able to post unlimited positions, control where their jobs are advertised (nationwide, by state or by zip code), and choose their pricing bracket. We offer two different payment options: flat rate and pay-per-applicant.
For job seekers, we offer a vast database of open positions and an easy-to-use format to enhance their job search. Not only are they free to apply for positions at will, but we also invite them to apply for jobs that they are already qualified for.
By using a network of geographic and industry specific job boards, we provide employers and job seekers with options, an important factor to both parties.
- - -
SO BE CAREFUL OUT THERE…EVEN YAHOO JOBS APPARENTLY IS ACCEPTING SCAM ADS NOW. I AM GOING TO REPORT THIS, BUT BE SURE TO CHECK OUT SITES IF THEY LOOK LIKE THE JOB IS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE OR IF THE SITE IS GENERIC
A note on what I think they are doing: they appear to be capturing data on whether a person wants to continue their education or start a company, in addition to being a job seeker. I believe their whole goal is to create sellable lists to make money off of OUR EMAIL ADDRESSES!
If you think that sounds far fetched, just know that I worked for a legitimate company that rented lists from a big legitimate list rental agency. We paid up to $50k for lists in a year! It’s BIG BUSINESS and our email boxes will suffer!!!!
MORE INFO!
Attention fraudulent job posters — your days are numbered. You might as well turn yourselves in, because info about you is ALL over the net and it won’t be long before you’re done!!
Their List of Offending Web Sites, In Part, Includes:
jobsmatchnowemployment.com
career-network.com
findperfectcareercenter.com
perfectcareercenter.com
threestarsteam.com
threestarsinc.com
three-stars-inc.com
three-stars-inc.net
threestarsinc.info blastcareers.com imageemployment.com greatestcustomcareers.com youlookforcareers.com theconcordcareers.com directcareerjobs.com employmentflash.com twinklecareers.com yourcareerdrive.com career-zoom.com
actioncareersonline.com
actionmarketingteam.com
careernetworksite.net
There are THOUSANDS more, to be sure…I just feel exposed clicking on their links any further.
Others reporting scams from these people:
http://en.wordpress.com/tag/alec-difrawi/ (links to many of the scams listed below)
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/03/administrative-assistant-company-confidential-2/
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/346/RipOff0346720.htm
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/352/RipOff0352258.htm
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/341/RipOff0341891.htm
http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/fraud–rip-off-c133814.html
http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/false-job-posting-c109267.html
http://www.complaintsboard.com/suspicious-companies/careernetworkjobscom-aka-starlitecareerscom-aka-jocelyn-gibbons-a70314.html
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090129143600AAyocdI
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090206063501AAD7yfb
http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&p=17034639
http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2001/03/stampout2001.shtm (Career Network was in court on this in 2001 — they didn’t learn their lesson!)
http://www.arwentaylor.com/craigslist-job-scam-internet-solutions-corporation/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/22/jobs-by-action-marketing-team-three-star-inc-or/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/18/company-nameaction-marketing-team/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/12/plant-worker-action-marketing-team/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/10/bank-teller-position-confidential/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/04/warehouse-worker-permanent-hire-careers/
http://scamfraudalert.wordpress.com/2009/04/24/action-marketing-team-jobs/
http://threestarsmedia.blogg.se/
http://www.aboutus.org/User:snagalot
http://www.hollywooddump.com/2007/02/another-employee-steps-forward-to-vent.html
Let’s WORK TOGETHER to protect ourselves! I have submitted my story to a few sites, but I also submitted this entire post to the FBI! You can too! There’s also the Federal Trade Commission, Better Business Bureau, etc. Take action, don’t let them keep this up! Also, if we don’t stop employment sites like Yahoo Hot Jobs from taking their ads, we are all in danger AND getting our hopes up for jobs that don’t exist. Report it to them as well, like I did!
Report to the FBI: http://www.ic3.gov/complaint/default.aspx
Report to the FTC: https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/FTC_Wizard.aspx?Lang=en
Report to the BBB: https://odr.bbb.org/odrweb/public/getstarted.aspx
Tell Yahoo Hot Jobs that It’s Fraud ! Stop Them From Allowing Fraud to Be Mixed w/Real Jobs.
Go to http://help.yahoo.com/l/us/yahoo/hotjobs/generaljobs.html. Tell them about Employer #649062, as well as the Action Marketing Team, Employer #730888, which looks more legitimate, but when you access their jobs, it’s the SAME forms as the other site. Ugh! (Don’t forget to click the REPORT ABUSE link on individual jobs connected to these employers!)
[...] Source: Arwen Taylor Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)LA Hired - Teacher’s Assistant - Company: Confidential Client -www.lahire…Picking on the job seekersHow to take a step down the ladderJobless, not hopeless [...]
Hello,
I am so glad to see that you have kept your posting up. I ran into actually Career Network and realized it was a fraud as I too received several under different emails but they all had the same Terms & Agreement page, and some time ago they application used to ask for the phone carrier (which they can earn bogus money sending text msgs to you). But, even though you found out it’s Defrawi, that is not is total true name, Alex is a chosen name. Look up Lou Pearlman in wikipedia. Alex was his parnter and Lou Pearlman went to jail in Florida for the up to then biggest Ponzi scheme in the US (unfortunately the Wall Street guy is now bigger). I reported CN (to craiglist security), and tried posting on yahoo answers, but got flagged for abouse, supposedly there is some profiles run by Defrawi another person found (Oscar the Grouch), who writes blogs that CN is a legitmate site, which it is not. Also, if you notice when receiving other bogus and fraud site info it all seems to originate in south Florida for some reason. Anyway, in my research (used to be in fraud prevention for a huge lender before they collapsed, this is why I’m on the hunt for Defrawi and getting him banned on any site), I found a connection of an Alec or Alexander Simon, because oneof the return emails for CN back then was from this name, he is connected to Talent Network in Las Vegas which is also reported as fraud and very similar to the Lou Pearlman scheme with adults, scamming paretns of money to put their kids into show biz. Defrawi actually spent time in jail for fraud, 4 years, and was charged with child abuse at one time. It’s all in wikipedia with links to the court documents, he can’t have public legal papers banned. I’ve found him on student web pages at colleges and he says find a great job, and he’s not a student. He couldn’t be going to school in one state and be attending a truck driving school in another. In all cases I report him to the site security, and I did start a case over a year ago with the Federal Trade Commission, and I never get any ads with him on craigslist anymore. But, I just reloaded my resume to yahoo again. Big mistake, and I tried to get their cooperation in getting rid of him, so again got an email from Career Network. I saw one blog where he may be associated with a European mafia as one guy is hunting Defrawi relentlessly, but some of this people are almost as bad as Defrawi. I only believe real documents, such as the court papers. And supposedly he’s buying up computer site shares and has knocked some people’s blogs and sites right out of business. He’s an immoral and evil person, and profiting from innocent job seekers misfortune. Just keep reporting him to the site securities and FTC and FCC. Keep up the good work, and I’m glad to see it did get to him since he contacted you directly. His real name is Ayman Ahmed El-Difrawi and supposedly his monther’s name and address is where his business is linked to. There is history on his parents ad life too. Read evreythign on wikipedia about this guy and Lou Pearlman.
As an additional note, I read a blog where if someone does get your cell and carrier and you start receiving odd text messages, to look for the opt out code. I never text and only have a prepaid cell, but supposedly unless you opt out, like on computer email this is how they could make money. Today’s email and Career Network application site did not ask for a carrier, so Defrawi seems smart enough to take that away. After watching the video I don’t know why the large copanies or a lawyer doesn’t take it on board to sue Career Network and Defrawi for illegally using their trademarks on their website without permission. I used to work in sales/marketing in the software development world, and you can’t use logos and trademarks without express permisson. There’s a lead for any lawyers out there, could make some money or at least a name for yourself. Today’s website didn’t list the companies like before, but fraudster are stupid, they leave a trail that will always trip them up as I found working in the real estate fraud. They have many trademarked logos of famous companies right there on their web pages. Defrawi will eventually go to jail, just a matter of time, as it took with Lou Pearlman, we all just have to keep blogging and putting in formal complaints, and if we can get the job boards to listen and help, they they won’t have a place to capture you info as easily, if they are banned, but I couldn’t get yahoo to listen and all they have in their admin section now is insurance sales, and bogus companies, guess they don’t care.
Thanks for these great postings. I have sent email responses saying “you are scammers and liars” and I get a response “thanks for your great interest we would like to hire you.” So they don’t even read what you send. One flag for me is misspelled words in the ad. If they can’t spell key words in the ad I get a strong feeling it is a scam.
I recently found an email in my inbox regarding Legal Assistant position, and as I am currently job hunting, of course I was interested… at first. The email contained a link out to an “online application”, and as I am wary of any job response containing a website link, I Googled their company name: Career-Network, Inc., P.O. Box 618305, Orlando, FL 32861-8305.
The search results all pointed to scam, and I appreciate coming across your article. I just wanted to add the information sent to me, to help warn others. The web address they linked me to for their application was “newly-employed.com”.
Thanks for your article!
I was led to Career Network via the Virginia Workforce Commission as I have recently been laid off. Now I am getting calls from online universities about continuing my education. What’s up with that and how do I let the VEC know that this company is posting ads with them.
To help mitigate spam, comments from first time commenters are moderated.
Super interesting article. (That sounds kinda spammy, I know, but I’m totally serious) I know that for online jobs, I use my name, my work email, and my work AIM account. I’d like to think it makes me a little bit safer.
I don’t use Craigslist just because it reminds me of places like facebook or myspace. It just seems crowded and not very professional and kinda sketchy. I even tried going to “Getafreelancer” and applied for some jobs there. Their policy actually forbids you from using contact details ON ANY PORTION OF THE SITE. As well, deleting your account requires you to email them directly. (seem weird to you? or is it just me?)
There’s always a risk involved when putting information into an online source. You just have to be careful.