Scammers target nannies and babysitters because the work is often arranged online. Most scams follow the same few patterns. Knowing them keeps your money and your identity safe.
The most common scams
The overpayment check. A "family" sends you a check for more than your pay and asks you to send back the difference, or to buy supplies with it. The check bounces days later, and you lose the money you sent.
The family that never meets you. They are "abroad" or "moving soon", hire you without an interview, and ask for personal information or a payment to "reserve" the job.
The fake agency fee. Someone asks you to pay for training, a background check or registration before you can work. At Asiri Care, applying is always free.
The gift card or wire request. No real employer asks you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfers.
Warning signs
- They won't talk on the phone or by video
- The pay is much higher than normal for the hours
- They ask for your bank login, your Social Security number or a copy of your ID before any interview
- Spelling mistakes, pressure to answer fast, or stories that keep changing
How to protect yourself
- Always meet the family (by video or in person) before accepting
- Never deposit a check and send money back
- Share personal documents only after you have a real offer, and only what is needed for your job
- Keep your conversations inside the platform or agency when you can
- Tell someone where you are going for a first meeting
If something feels wrong
Stop answering, keep the messages, and tell us. You can also report scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If you already sent money, call your bank right away.