I was thrilled when I received an email from a blockchain startup offering me a remote position as a “Crypto Marketing Specialist.” The email mentioned my active participation in crypto forums and communities, claiming they were impressed by my knowledge and outreach. The company, BlockReach Global, appeared legitimate, with a professional website, detailed job descriptions, and even a LinkedIn page showcasing its team members.

The job seemed perfect. It offered flexible hours, a competitive salary, and the opportunity to work on exciting blockchain projects. As part of the onboarding process, they asked for my personal information, including a scanned copy of my ID and proof of address, to “comply with KYC regulations.” They also sent me a contract that looked official, complete with company branding.

Feeling confident, I submitted the requested documents. Then, they asked me to set up a wallet to handle “client funds” and deposit $1,000 as an activation fee to prove my commitment. This request felt odd, but I rationalized it as a formality for handling large transactions.

After I sent the money, communication stopped. The email address bounced back, the website disappeared, and the LinkedIn profiles turned out to be fake. Worse, my personal information was used to open fraudulent accounts, leading to a nightmare of identity theft issues.

This experience taught me to always verify job offers thoroughly. Research the company, contact them through official channels, and be wary of requests for money or sensitive information. Scammers prey on job seekers’ eagerness and use professional-looking facades to gain trust. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, investigate further.