How to spot a fake internship and avoid scams

Most employers are honest, but scammers exist everywhere. The good news: nearly every scam is easy to recognise from a few signs.

The golden rule

A real internship never asks for money. Not for "paperwork", not for "training", not for a "uniform", not for a "job guarantee". If someone asks you to pay, it is almost always a scam.

Warning signs

• They ask you to transfer money or pay a "fee".
• They promise a huge salary for simple work with no experience.
• They rush you: "decide right now, the spot is going".
• No company name, address or clear description of the tasks.
• Communication only through personal messengers, not an official email.
• They ask for your passport, SMS codes or bank card access.

How to check an employer

• Search for the company online — website, reviews, social media.
• Make sure it has a real address and contacts.
• On INTERO, look for the verified company badge.
• Ask friends or your university career office.

If something feels off

• Don't transfer money or send personal documents.
• Stop communicating.
• Report the listing — on INTERO every vacancy has a "Report" button.
• Warn your friends so they don't fall for it either.

Remember

Healthy caution is not rudeness — it's looking after yourself. An honest employer has nothing to hide and will happily answer your questions.