Avoid scams that target job hunters

With the unemployment rate at more than 9%, many people are still looking for jobs. Job hunters are constantly bombarded with ads on web sites or by e-mail. Before checking out any job offer or signing a contract, keep these tips offered by the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission and other consumer advocacy organizations, in mind.

Jobs that ask you to pay
If a job ad asks you to pay an upfront fee, that's usually not a good sign. Some ads also ask consumers to pay to receive a list of jobs that are available. Save your money -- often this kind of information can be found for free.