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LIFE IN YOUR POCKET

WORK FROM HOME: THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME? CHECK FIRST!

· Published · 2 minute read

An easy task, a famous logo, a request for money. Read the clues before handing over cash or documents.

Working at a computer

They may initially pay you a small sum. Then they ask you to deposit money to “unlock” further tasks. In 2025 the US Federal Trade Commission described these “task scams”: fake earnings on screen, with requests for deposits, often in cryptocurrency. When there is an initial payment, it helps build trust.

A real job does not charge an entry toll

Be wary of guaranteed employment only after buying mandatory courses, kits or materials. The FTC distinguishes these demands from legitimate training opportunities: a course may be serious, but paying does not establish that a job exists.

In February 2026 Lombardy’s regional authority warned about advertisements impersonating EURES, EU Careers and EPSO for hotel jobs in Switzerland. They request personal data and transfers for supposed expenses. EURES services are free!

The logo is only a first clue

Find the advertisement independently on the official portal, rather than through the supplied link. Check the web address and contact the organisation through official channels, beyond the advertisement. EURES warns about copied sites and subtly misspelled addresses.

For an Italian company, the Registro Imprese provides official information. A real company can still be impersonated; registration does not prove who contacted you.

Three messages to read twice

These invented examples help identify clues:

“Deposit money to withdraw your earnings.” A classic task-scam mechanism.

“Send documents and bank details immediately; we are EURES.” Verify the official contact first.

“Use your account to transfer clients’ money.” Police warn of money muling: involvement in money laundering.

Italy’s data-protection authority recalls that recruitment may request only relevant and necessary data. Employers do not need passwords, PINs or temporary codes to pay you; police warn against attempts to steal them.

Already replied?

Stop payments and keep conversations, screenshots, receipts and contact details. Milan police emphasise preserving evidence for a report. Contact your bank immediately through official channels, as the Bank of Italy advises. Recovering money is unfortunately not guaranteed.

Change any disclosed password wherever you reused it. Contact police or Carabinieri; report EURES impersonation to its helpdesk too.

Urgency, promises, demands for money? Pause. Know who employs you, for what work and on what terms. A serious offer can be verified outside the chat.

SOURCES AND FURTHER READING

Photo credits

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