I applied for a Remote Data Entry Clerk position through a Zoho Recruit listing for a Realty company in SC, found via ZipRecruiter. The company itself appears to be real, and the job posting matches what I applied for.
After applying, I received an email offer from them along with a formal offer letter. The offer listed the position as Remote Part-Time Data Entry Clerk, 10–25 hours/week with a flexible schedule. The pay was inconsistent: $25/hr on page 1, $23/hr on page 3, and $30/hr during training. It also mentioned vague benefits like PTO, 401k, and bonuses depending on eligibility, and at-will employment.
The email said they are not conducting video interviews, I should sign the offer letter and complete onboarding forms, and after accepting, they would send me a check to cover remote work equipment. I would deposit the check, then purchase equipment through their approved vendors. This step was described as part of onboarding and used to evaluate candidates. They included a very high-end equipment package (MacBook Pro, accessories, software, etc.) and said I must follow instructions exactly with no exceptions.
Other details: they had me do a Microsoft Form as part of the interview process but no one ever called me. The supervisor is listed only as "Lucy" with no last name. The offer letter is generic and not personalized. Communication came from a company domain email, but the signature doesn't match the name printed below it.
I have not deposited anything or signed yet. I'm planning to call the company directly to verify.