LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Online scammers are getting more sophisticated, even targeting legitimate platforms like HouseSitter.com. A Las Vegas woman avoided falling victim to a scam and is now sharing her story to help others spot the red flags.

The woman, a Channel 13 viewer who wishes to remain anonymous, was hoping to earn extra money as a house sitter when she came across a suspicious job offer. Her instincts kicked in when the supposed owner seemed more interested in getting personal information than discussing the details of the job.

“He gave me an address but after I checked it just didn’t make sense. It was just a general street,” said the woman. “When I insisted on the exact house number, she hesitated. Eventually I found out the house was for sale.”

The scammer offered an unusually high rate of $600 for just four hours of work per day. When the viewer started asking more questions, the so-called owner avoided meeting in person and refused to talk on the phone, communicating only via text and email.

“Then she said, ‘I have to be honest with you. I can’t talk on the phone because I had an accident and my ear is hurt. That raised a huge red flag,” the woman recalled.

Channel 13 checked and found our viewer was not alone in her experience. According to the FBI, Nevada reported more than 317,000 cases of identity theft in 2023, many of which were related to online employment fraud. The average loss to Nevada consumers is estimated at $2,800 per victim.

Craig Friedberg, a consumer advocate in Las Vegas, warns that scammers often exploit online platforms to steal personal information and money.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” Friedberg said. “If you have to pay to get paid, it’s probably a scam. Legitimate employers do not ask for money or sensitive financial information up front.”

To protect yourself from falling victim to scams like these, Friedberg recommends taking these precautions:

• Research the company thoroughly by checking reviews and verifying information through reputable sources like the Better Business Bureau.
• Make sure websites are secure by looking for “https” and a lock icon in your browser bar.
• Avoid sharing sensitive information without checking with the employer.
• Report suspicious activity directly on the platform and include all relevant details.

For platforms like HouseSitter.com, users are encouraged to report scams and suspicious profiles. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Stay vigilant and informed to protect your personal information online.