Reading for the Real World 2 Second Edition – Test Bank

Work-from-Home Scams
If you search the Internet for “work-from-home” opportunities, you will find hundreds of jobs promising fast cash with limited effort. These companies are seeking people to assemble products, mail letters, or make telephone sales calls. The problem is, many are illegitimate and may actually scam you out of your own money.
There are several things to watch out for when considering a work-from-home job. First, be wary of any organization that asks you for an initial investment. For example, if the job is to assemble products, you might be asked to purchase the instructions and materials up front. When you return the assembled products, they tell you they do not meet specifications. You are out of money, with no chance of profiting from your initial investment. Another scam is when the company offers to advance your salary as a supposed sign of good will. You deposit the check in the bank, and before the check has cleared, the company tells you they accidentally overpaid you. After you have paid back a portion, you discover their check was not legitimate. Now you have paid money from your own pocket and do not have any money from the company.
A good rule is to stick to jobs that require some skills, like a license or certificate, or some experience. It might be worthwhile to get the qualifications you need so that you can legitimately make money later. Also, ask the company to provide references who can tell you about their work experiences. If the company cannot or will not do this, it is probably illegitimate.
Working from home can be a wonderful opportunity, but as with any job, you want to be sure it will be something that is beneficial and improves the quality of your life.
1. What is the tone of the passage?

 Pleasant

 Exciting

 Optimistic

 Cautionary

 Sympathetic

2. What is the main idea of the passage?

 Working from home is a wonderful experience.

 A small investment can often lead to huge profits.

 Getting a certificate online can help you find a job.

 Some work-from-home opportunities are actually scams.

 Working from home rarely pays as well as working in an office.