as you search for legitimate home-based jobs.

-- Rip-OffReport.com (Note that, as the site says, “Ripoff Report does not guarantee that all reports are authentic or accurate. Be an educated consumer. Read what you can and make your decision based upon an examination of all available information.”)

-- ScamBusters.org (According to the site, they’ve been helping people ward off scams since 1994.)

-- Scam.com (Click on "Work at Home Scams" to see what others have to say about various home-based work opportunities.)

-- Fraud.org (“Home of the National Consumers League’s Fraud Center.” Includes information on telemarketing scams and elder fraud.)

-- Federal Trade Commission, at ftc.gov (See the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection for information on fraud.)

But Don’t be Discouraged -- Legitimate Jobs are Available and Growing

The Internet is still in some respects a “wild and wooly” place when it comes to finding work, but don’t let the scammers discourage you. Domestic (US) outsourcing and telework are still strong and growing trends, and such companies as IBM, Best Buy, American Express, and many smaller firms are now doing it routinely.

As long as you do your research, ask questions, and discount the “things that are too good to be true,” you’ll join the thousands of others enjoying the benefits of working from home -- without getting stung along the way.