Scheme flies away with job-seekers' cash

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- It sounded like the perfect job opportunity: good pay, great benefits and plenty of positions open. But the only beneficiaries were con artists who cooked up a scheme to defraud vulnerable job seekers.

For anyone looking for a job, the following words are exactly what you want to hear, "The airlines are currently hiring for the following entry-level positions: flight attendants, ticketing, baggage handlers, no experience is necessary."

The recording goes on to say employees could earn $14 to $22 an hour, health insurance benefits and paid vacation included.

For a fee of $39, the company American Careers would usher people through the hiring process to work for the airlines. But there was a problem.

"People would either receive nothing in return for their money or merely would receive an airline hiring guide," said U.S. Postal Inspector Frank Schissler.

Postal inspectors began tracking American Careers after receiving hundreds of complaints.

"It appeared the company was connected with the airlines and was able to provide hiring assistance, or would actually do hiring," said Schissler. "People were urged to call a phone number, and then provide their basic information, and then submit a check or money order to the company."

Postal inspectors say that was a red flag.

"They didn't allow you to use a credit card because of course you can dispute the charge with your credit card company," said Schissler.

Some advice for anyone who finds a job online but is asked for a fee: you can always check them out with the Better Business Bureau or state attorney general's office.