Caregiver Job Scams: How to Spot Them & Avoid Getting Burned

Nowadays most caregivers use online platforms to search for jobs.

These platforms, including Herewith, work hard to take down any fake job postings as soon as they’re flagged, but it’s essential to protect yourself and know what to look for when it comes to caregiver job scams.

Let’s say you just found what looks like the perfect caregiver job.

The family seems lovely, the pay is generous, and they want to hire you immediately without even meeting you first.

Something feels off, but you need the work and don't want to miss out on a good opportunity.

But here's the reality: if a job offer feels way too good to be true, it could be a scam.

The good news is, the more you understand caregiver job scams, the less likely you are to fall for one.

This guide will walk you through the most common red flags, teach you how to spot fake job postings and bots, and give you the tools to protect yourself while finding legitimate caregiver opportunities.

Red flags: How to Spot Fake Caregiver Job Postings

Caregiver scams come in many forms, but they all have the same goal: to take your money or personal information.

Here are the most common types you might see while job searching online, and how to protect yourself.

1. The Fake Check Scam

A family claims they’re moving to your area soon and need care for a loved one.

They send you a large check to “buy supplies” or “hold the job.” Then they ask you to send back the “extra” money by wire or gift card.

The check is fake. By the time your bank flags it, you’ve sent your own money and are responsible for paying it back.

What to do: Never send money back to anyone who pays you upfront. Real families pay only for completed work. Herewith makes it safe and easy to receive your paycheck through our secure portal.

2. The Identity Theft Setup

A “family” says they need a background check before hiring and asks you to email or text a photo of your driver’s license and a selfie. This is a way to steal your identity.

What to do: Only complete background checks through secure, official channels. Herewith’s background check process is built into the app and is always free for Helpers.

3. The “Too Good to be True” Offer

The job pays unusually high rates for basic care, promises perfect hours, and skips interviews altogether.

What to do: Be cautious when offers are overly generous with no screening. Herewith will also never ask you to pay to search for jobs. You only share banking details when setting up direct deposit for client payments.

4. Solicitations for Personal Information

Scammers may ask for your phone number, home address, or Social Security number early in the conversation, claiming it’s “for records” or “to reserve the job.”

What to do: Avoid sharing personal information until you’ve confirmed the family is legitimate and you’ve had a real conversation or meeting. Learn the do’s and don’ts of how to chat with clients on Herewith.

Although these online job scams come in different formats, there is usually one common red flag: the “family” or “recruiter” is rushing you through the process.

Scammers want to rush you to give them what they want (your information or money), before you can catch on.

If a job offer seems oddly rushed, pay attention.

How To Know When You’re Talking to a Bot

A bot is an automated program pretending to be a real person. Some are basic, while more modern bots use AI to sound more natural.

Either way, their goal is to get your personal information before you realize they’re not real.

Signs you might be messaging a bot:

• Instant replies at unusual hours
• Vague or repetitive answers, no matter what you ask
• Avoiding phone or video calls with excuses
• Pushing for personal information early in the conversation
• Inconsistent details if you circle back to earlier topics

What to do: If you suspect you’re talking to a bot, stop messaging right away. Don’t share personal details like your phone number, address, or availability. And don’t click on links that they send you.

And if you want to know if a remote job is legit, here’s a simple test: ask for a quick phone or video call. Real families are happy to connect, while scammers will avoid it at all costs!

Make sure you report the conversation to the platform you’re using. On Herewith, email support@herewith.com or call 415-506-9776.

How To Report Suspicious Job Postings

Spotting a scam early helps protect you and other Helpers from losing money or personal information.

Here’s how to take action.

Reporting on Herewith

If you’re already messaging with someone suspicious, use the in-app “Report” feature in your conversation.

You can also report suspicious job postings or unwanted messaging right away so our team can investigate.

For urgent concerns, call 415-506-9776 Mon–Sat, 9 AM–6:30 PM PT or email support@herewith.com.

Reporting on Other Platforms

Most job sites have built-in reporting tools like “Report this job” or “Flag as spam.”

Use them right away, and always keep your own copy of the post before it disappears.

What to include in your report:

• A copy or screenshot of the job post
• Screenshots of messages exchanged
• The scammer’s username, email, or phone number
• A short note about what seemed suspicious and when it happened

Act quickly so scammers can be removed before they reach more caregivers.

Staying Safe When You Arrive For Caregiver Jobs

Most families are genuine and welcoming, but it’s still important to stay alert during your first visit.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s worth paying attention.

When you first get there, take a moment to look around and notice whether things match what you discussed beforehand.

Watch for warning signs like:

• The address or setting being different from what was discussed
• Extra people present without explanation
• Requests for personal information right away
• Pressure to start work before meeting the care recipient
• The home feeling unsafe or not as described
• Anyone appearing under the influence of drugs or alcohol

If something doesn’t feel right, have a plan:

• Leave immediately and go somewhere public
• If you’ve clocked in, clock out so you’re not charged for time you didn’t work
• Contact the platform’s support team once you’re safe. For Herewith, call 415-506-9776 or email support@herewith.com

If you ever feel in immediate danger, call 911. Your safety comes first, always.

How Herewith Keeps Your Information Secure

Herewith was built with Helper safety and privacy in mind.

Unlike some job sites where your personal details become public right away, you choose what to share and when to share it.

Here’s how we keep your info safe:

• Your phone number, email, and home address are never shown on your public profile
• You decide what to highlight, like caregiving experience, skills, and availability
• In-app messaging lets you talk with families without revealing contact information and keeps a record of all conversations
• Every Helper completes a free background check to build trust with clients while results stay private between you and Herewith
• You can review family profiles and chat with them before accepting a job to make sure it feels like the right fit

Important reminder: Herewith will never ask you to pay for job searching or background checks. You only share banking details when it’s time to set up direct deposit for client payments.

Smart Practices For Safe Caregiver Job Searching

These habits will help you spot fake job postings and avoid caregiver scams, no matter which platform you use. A few minutes of extra care now can save you from big problems later.

Research Before You Apply

Take a moment to confirm that the job is real. A quick online search can tell you a lot.

Here’s what to do:

• Look up the company’s name, phone number, or email along with words like “scam” or “review”
• Check that the address is a real residential location
• Search any company or agency names mentioned to confirm they exist and have good reviews
• See if the same job post appears word-for-word on multiple sites

If anything you find raises questions, it’s safer to move on to the next opportunity.

Take Your Time Deciding

Legitimate families understand that good caregivers want to make informed choices, so they shouldn’t rush you.

Take time to:

• Ask specific questions about care needs and daily routines
• Request a phone or video call before accepting a position
• Think about it before agreeing to a job offer

If someone pressures you to commit immediately, that’s a sign to slow down.

Keep Good Records

Make sure you’re making note of any suspicious job postings or interactions. Here are a few tips:

• Keeping track of your job search (in general) helps if you ever need to report a problem.
• Save screenshots of job posts and conversations
• Write down names, addresses, and phone numbers shared during the process
• Note anything that seemed unusual or raised concerns

These simple steps make it easier to spot warning signs early and focus your energy on safe, legit caregiving jobs.

Stay Alert, Stay Safe, Keep Helping

Scammers target caregivers because they know you’re here to help.

By slowing down, checking details, and protecting your personal information, you can spot trouble before it affects you.

Listen to your gut, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away from an offer that doesn’t feel right. There are plenty of families looking for trustworthy Helpers like you!

When you’re ready to find safe, legitimate caregiving jobs, start your search on Herewith and connect with families who value your skills and your safety.