These ads are everywhere you look online--testimonials from a stay-at-home mom who brought in a hefty chunk of change by fairly menial online work. The ads may include references to reputable businesses: "As seen on CNN" or "Mom makes $$$$ by posting links on Google."
You click the link, thinking "what have I got to lose?" It takes you to another site with newspaper articles on the program featuring happy people showing off their checks.
These articles seem to be from reputable sources like USA Today and your local papers, but the writers must have left their journalistic ethics at the door--the articles are filled with testimonials and even end of with a call to action: "Join Now: there are 52 positions left!"
You decide to try it out, since even if it is a scam, you'll only lose the $12.99 for the startup package--or so you think. All that changes when you receive your next credit card statement--which has a membership charge of $150!! You call the company and try to dispute it, but they say it's impossible to cancel, thanks to some sneaky work in the fine print. They may also tell you to buy additional software or training to "maximize your earning potential".
When you finally realize you're being taken advantage of and try to report them and denounce the company online, you'll already be too late. The company will simply change their name and start again, scamming whoever else wants to make a quick buck.
How to avoid: just stay away from these types of offers. Sign up fees, membership costs and other charges aren't usually the first step to securing new employment. If you feel yourself getting tempted, try googling the site online and look for an independent review.