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Employment - Equipment Purchasing Scam

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Employment - Equipment Purchasing Scam Reports & Reviews (140)

- Mc Kees Rocks, PA, USA • Mar 12, 2026

Offered job. Made download app telegram and cash app. Gave up my ssn birthdate debit card. Emailed a check to be deposited to my account for equipment and software.

- Easton, PA, USA • Mar 10, 2026

After having a text-based interview to determine my qualifications through Microsoft Teams, I was told to contact them the next day to see if my employment was approved and for next steps.

After accepting, I was sent an offer letter, W4 form and a direct deposit form. Once the forms were completed they were to be scanned and sent back to them via email. I was also instructed to send them pics of my driver's license. I was told that I would receive a check from them for me to deposit a check into a bank account for equipment needed for the position, got the list of position. They emailed a check- both the front and back - which I thankfully deposited into an account that was empty and I don't use. Attached document is how it started. Stupid me gave them sensitive information and now I am a new customer of Lifelock.

- Norfolk, VA, USA • Feb 20, 2026

I applied to this job listing on Behance which resulted in an email response asking me to join a Microsoft teams chat with 'Joe Sordello.' I've had previous job scam experience before so out of caution I went around the internet looking for any evidence of who he was and his ties to the company (aside from a face in the profile pic)- but I couldn't find anything (not even a Linkedin profile). It wasn't until we went over job requirements and there was a line mentioning equipment provided by the company. I had my own laptop with the necessary programs to do the job remotely so I asked about that and said they'll be providing me with a macbook pro (i don't remember the exact specs). I'm in a university discord server and we constantly get bombarded with bots/scammers trying to pass off as a real person offering or giving away a free macbook, so immediately another red flag. The interview was also only via the Teams chat, so no video/phone/zoom call like the sort.

- Slatington, PA, USA • Sep 13, 2025

Offered to mail a check so I can deposit to purchase the products needed to work remote.

- Flushing, NY, USA • Jul 29, 2025

Beginning interview with these company from Microsoft Teams . Then had tell that we need to buy the equipment from their money cheque and Vendors they provided . Cheque deposit into own bank account and transfer pretend to sent the amount to other people to pay buy . I was already suspected the things that need me to follow up , asking on , but replied that have their own words promising , and confirming that were not involved in any illegal issue .. after it , not even money lost and own banking account in All Lost …

- Stroudsburg, PA, USA • Jun 20, 2025

I was looking for a job and Healthee contacted me with a job proposal. It was a work from home offer and they requested information to start the job. I gave them the information. They said they will send me a check to set up my work from home office. I tried depositing the check and that is when I found out that the check was fraudulent from the bank.

- Round Rock, TX, USA • May 22, 2025

I applied for a transcriptionist position on Indeed, and they texted me to say they would like to continue the application process. So I did. I don't remember, but I think I gave them my Social Security number to complete a background check, and everything looked legit. Until the last email that is trying to get me to "cash" a check with my bank for $3000 to buy supplies. I did not do this and found a number online for Hilton Realty at Harpers Crossing and called them. The person who answered the phone explained that the company is a fraud and that they have tried several times to get them blocked and taken down from Linked in and Indeed. I am one of several who have called.

- Flagstaff, AZ, USA • May 21, 2025

I wanted to share a recent scam attempt I experienced in case it helps others avoid a similar situation.

The first contact was via SMS, claiming to offer a position I had recently applied for on job platforms.

After responding, I was introduced—via the Webex app—to someone claiming to be Francesca Castaldo, the HR Manager at a company called PerfectData Software. All communication was done through chat—there were no calls or video meetings, which already felt a bit odd.

They provided a detailed overview of the company, the job responsibilities, salary, and mentioned a one-week paid training period. They asked very general background questions and then quickly said I had been “selected” and would soon meet the team.

That’s when things started to feel suspicious.

They claimed the company would provide a laptop and software for remote work and said they’d send a company-issued check for me to deposit. After that, I was supposed to follow instructions to purchase and set up the equipment.

This was a major red flag—especially since I hadn’t received any official offer letter, email, or contract. I stopped communication immediately, and they never followed up.

I believe the scam involves sending a fake check, then asking you to send back part of the money for “supplies” or “setup.” Classic scam tactic.

- Chattanooga, TN, USA • Apr 24, 2025

Great sounding job, too good to be true as they say. And I thought I had done good homework. Visited website, the business/services they provide. I, too was assured of a company credit card after two weeks but it did not arrive. I was to have received first paycheck April 21-22; today is 24 and no paycheck. I've called and emailed with no response today. No indication offices are closed. I've a flicker of hope -- if the review I just read from March, if unstable just M A Y B E I'll get some of my monies back. So many people asked what I was purchasing (several Apple products at the same time) and then of course gift cards (mine were Apple and Macy's). I try to be a decent Christian; I try not to be greedy; I trust all until they show me otherwise. However, there is a scripture that reads "for the love of money is the root of all evil", maybe I wasn't listening to God close enough.

- Shermans Dale, PA, USA • Apr 17, 2025

Job offer that included the company sending me checks to use to purchase job equipment. Company then refunded the checks after money was sent to their “vendor”

- Walden, NY, USA • Apr 09, 2025

Hello,

I hope this email finds you well. I came across your resume, which was suggested to me for the position of Customer Service Representatives I'm reaching out to you with an urgent recruitment opportunity to replace my current Personal Assistant and CSR personnel.

Job Overview:

I am seeking a friendly, simple, and trustworthy assistant who can handle customer service tasks and provide administrative support. This is a remote position, offering flexibility as a full-time or part-time job. The working hours will be between 5 to 8 hours daily, with the possibility of increasing hours if desired.

Job Responsibilities:

- Compile, sort, and verify customer issues and data

- Assist the HR Manager

- Maintain logs of activities and completed work

- Perform typing and data entry tasks

- Receive calls, texts, and emails on my behalf

- Book appointments and flight reservations

Requirements:

- Ability to maintain confidentiality

- High level of integrity and honesty

- Organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks

- Self-motivated and proactive approach

- Flexibility and adaptability

About Me:

My name is April Van, and I'm an Artist and HR Consultant for Gabbi. I travel frequently for consultations and art-related business. I have a large client base, including companies, individuals, and institutions.

Due to my busy schedule, I require a reliable Personal Assistant and CSR personnel to handle client issues and provide administrative support. I am willing to offer a competitive hourly rate of $30, plus a reasonable sign-on bonus.

To proceed, I would like you to answer the following questionnaire:

- Have you worked as a CSR or Personal Assistant before?

- Can you take this as a primary job?

- If secondary, how many hours does your primary job require?

- Do you have a professional reference?

- How many hours are you willing to devote to this role?

- What do you understand about privacy and code of conduct?

- Describe yourself.

- Are you willing to give your best effort in working with me?

I look forward to your prompt response.

Best regards,

April Van

Thank you for your response. After reviewing your answers to the questionnaire, I am pleased to inform you that your application has been successful, and you have been accepted as my Personal Assistant/CSR personnel.

Due to my current commitments in Toronto, Canada, I regret that we cannot meet in person before you start. However, I have work ready for you to begin immediately. We will schedule a meeting upon my return to discuss further briefings and tax documents.

To facilitate your work, I will provide funds for the necessary equipment, including internet facilities. You will also be required to obtain a mobile number for this job. A sign-on bonus, including supplies, will be included in the equipment funds.

Below is the list of equipment that will be shipped to you:

* HP business machine Notebook (Intel(R) Pentium(R) Dual CPU T2330 @1.60GHz 1.60GHz)

* Printer, Scanner & Fax machine (ALL IN ONE)

* Microsoft Office and Microsoft Operating Systems (Service Pack 2)

* Kaspersky Internet Security application installed on the Laptop

* A separate cell phone for work-related communication

* A time tracker to calculate time spent during work periods

* HP Laptop/Notebook hard-case (Logo Imprinted) for mobility

* Additional software for accuracy, speed of data processing, time monitoring, and effectiveness

Please note that you will not be required to spend personal funds on these purchases. I will provide the necessary funds to cover the equipment and shipping costs.

To proceed, please provide the following information:

1. How many hours are you willing to work per day?

2. What time range do you prefer?

3. What is your phone network carrier?

4. What is your preferred payroll interval (weekly or bi-weekly)?

5. What is your preferred payroll method (check or direct transfer)?

6. What bank do you operate with (please provide the bank name only)?

Additionally, please re-confirm your contact details:

Name: _________________________________

Address/Apt No.: _________________________________

City: _________________________________

State: _________________________________

Zip Code: _________________________________

Phone # (home): _________________________________

Cell # : _________________________________

Email: _________________________________

I look forward to receiving your prompt response and starting our working relationship.

Best regards,

April Van

- Elizabeth City, NC, USA • Apr 02, 2025

Applied for a job, put In personal information for paycheck deposit, was told I was hired, waited and waited for equipment to do the job, never received it, called and emailed several times..just got voicemail and this morning all message and texts from and to the company was deleted by them and now you can't get anything on the phone and contact information has been deleted

- Cliffside Park, NJ, USA

I was prompted to apply for a job via LinkedIn and then an assessment and finally a called for interview screening. March 5 I was offered a job via email and told to join slack team via link, I was then send a check via slack to deposit in order to purchase computer and desk. The check was deposited and my account is under investigation and blocked. I send them my banking information and my passport card as proof for I9 and direct deposit. I have now blocked my accounts and I submitting a ScamPulse.com scam and using this for future reference.

- Philadelphia, PA, USA

I had applied for a job via LinkedIn. I was notified that I had been selected to interview further for the position. we then switched communication over to email and Microsoft Teams. I had an interview via teams and answered specific questions to the Jr. Architect position with questions seeming very legitimate and in line with what I would expect for my profession. I even did technical assessments, had 2 mini design charettes. seeming very legitimate and making me feel that this was a legitimate job offer. I received a letter for hire to sign. we then went about getting me the office equiptment and software needed. I received 2 checks from the company to cover the costs. I deposited the checks and waited for them to clear before then working with them to purchase the computer and software. after I sent money to pay for the invoices. a few days later my bank reversed the checks.

- Hamel, MN, USA

I was contacted regarding a job I applied for and was offered the opportunity to answer many very in-depth interview questions virtually. Once this was completed, I was contacted about a week later via email and presented with a job offer. I then received an "official offer letter". After accepting the offer, I was then sent "onboarding" instructions which requested a completed i9 and direct deposit information and advised that I would receive equipment provided by the company. I completed all the requested information, including my ssn and drivers license. Once they received this information, all lines of communication went cold and I have not heard anything else from them. The phone number they provided is no longer in service and no equipment ever arrived.

- New York, NY, USA

I was reached out via email for an "Executive Producer" role for a New York City based company called "Medivis". It claimed to have found me on LinkedIn and said I was the perfect fit for the role. I responded and set up an interview which initially was done on Microsoft Teams. After that was done the following day I had a follow up interview with someone else on the phone. The next day the same person called me and offered me the position.

I began the onboarding process which included filling out several typical forms, such as an offer sheet, a tax form, emergency contact form, their code of conduct handbook and direct deposit form. Then I was told I would go through an "orientation" which would include me getting into their system, having the equipment sent to my residence to set up remote office. I was told to purchase an iPad and iPhone which I did through Verizon and the reimbursement would be sent through my direct deposit.

I was told that the direct deposit was down and that it should be back up the following week (This was a Friday) and that in the interim they can send me a check to cover the initial purchase.

By Monday I had already received the devices of which I didn't have issue with because if there were any shenanigans i could always return the devices to a Verizon store and get credited back the charges. Well that AM the person I was speaking with on Teams was pressing me to ship the devices for his engineers to sync it with the other hardware I am going to receive. That was the red flag that stopped me in my tracks.

At the same time I was sent an invoice for how much the home office equipment would cost, which was upwards of 14K. And that instead of them buying it and sending to my place, they wanted to send me checks (direct deposit system down) to purchase the equipment via a third party where their "IT contractors" will set up my work station and then send me the equipment ready to use.

That's where I ended the communication. I then realized that they had my bank count as well as my SS# home address and phone number.

- Chicago, IL, USA

I received an email from this company stating that they were interested in hiring me for a work home position after emails from Melissa Albert. I was told that I will be emailing the manager Kristen Munn. I was asked to set up a Telegram app to communicate with Kristen after further communication with Kristen, she started to ask me for my personal information to take a picture with my ID and send it back to her. I filled out W-4 form And my bank information because I thought I would be on payroll receiving information I was being asked to give permission to add money to my bank to pay for my equipment to work from home amount would be $5500 after I noticed that that was a big red flag I stop communicating with Kristen Munn on Telegram and email. I can provide all information to investigate this company of fraud.

+1
- Jamaica, NY, USA

Applied for job as a EMR customer service representative and was emailed and texted back even emailed me w4 and direct deposit and other onboarding documents, told me I was hired. They got all my personal information by me filling out the forms. The email addresses, website all looked legit. Next thing I keep asking when is training and nothing. They even asked for my cell phone account said they'd pay for company phones for employees but needed access to enter there card info to purchase the phones and pay bill. I questioned why they wouldn't have there own account set up if they were purchasing iPhones for employees. Several red flags but I did have one company I was hesitant if it was a legit work from home and it was so I truly felt they might be legit too but wanting access to my accounts was weird,even asked about my bank and who I was with. Just weird, I should've known by pay being like $10 more an hour than most jobs all around.

+2
- Crestview, FL, USA

I was approached via email by a Jack McCoy. The email stated I had been selected for the position for an application I submitted (I had applied recently to Indeed at the time for various positions). I was told I did not need an interview and that there was a 2 week probation period where I would be performing the duties of a supply chain specialist. This entailed purchasing a variety of electronics using my personal credit card and that I would have access to the company's bank account to move limited money from their account to my card to pay for items and expense. After two weeks I would get a company credit card.

I have never seen anything like this done before.

*** *** ******* **** **********

- Upper Marlboro, MD, USA

I applied on simply hired the next day I was sent a text message to contact @david_stimit on telegram messenger from there I did an interview through text and I was told that I would be receiving a check in the mail to cover my equipment expenses.

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