Description

I was browsing on Indeed.com when I noticed a job posting for a Remote- Data Entry Specialist for Preferred Mechanical Group LLC. The pay range was almost too unbelievable ($24-$29/hour starting) but was just excited about the potential opportunity. I applied to the position on 5/4/25 and received an email 5/5/25 saying that they wanted to move forward with the process and do a brief overview/interview, but they wanted to do it via chat through Signal Messenger. I thought it was weird but I have done pre-interviews via chat with other companies so I didn't think too much into it. I downloaded the app and began my conversation with Christina Hartley. It started out normal, she introduced herself as the Hiring Manager at the company and proceeded to tell me about the company. She sent a website that seemed completely legit (which I'm concerned she just copied and pasted) and asked me to review it. Once I finished reviewing it, she began a series of information that I was to respond with "understood" once I finished reading. In the sections it explained benefits information, pay, materials needed for the position, etc. I reply with "Understood". She then asked me a series of Questions that I was supposed to copy, paste, fill in my answers, then send back. She responded by saying (verbatim) "You scored (86 percent out of 100 and above average) on the interview questions answered.Congratulations! The good news is.... you have just been confirmed qualified for this position( Remote Data Entry / Administrative Position). You are now offered the job position for pre-employment session.... You are HIRED! You are welcome to Preferred Mechanical Group LLC.... You are now given a chance to show your commitment,charisma,diligence and be a productive employee." I cannot lie, in the moment of excitement I continued with the process. She then sent me (vague) information about Orientation and training as well as the list of equipment I will need (Macbook Pro, Zebra printer, desk, drawer cabinet, etc.). I was under the impression that they were going to be sending me to a specific location to pick these items up under a company account name or something along those lines, but instead they were planning on sending me a check in the mail for the supplies. I immediately thought this was a scam. The following day, I received the offer letter, w-4, background check paperwork, and direct deposit paperwork via email. I did not want to sign anything until I was sure this was a scam. I messaged her explaining I received the documents in my email box that morning. She then provided me with a tracking number to the check through UPS and told me to let her know when I have the check in possession. I got the check ($8958.11), messaged her, and she told me to go to my bank to cash it, wait 24-hours then contact her again. I knew this was absolutely NOT normal so, I called the bank that the check was associated to and they immediately confirmed that this was a scam. I should have known better, but am happy that I did not give any sensitive information, other than my address, phone number and name. I hope that this helps the next person.