How to spot fake AI training job offers
Remote AI training work is real, which is exactly why scammers copy it. Fake offers use the same words (annotation, AI rater, data tasks) to collect fees, personal data or free work. These warning signs apply whichever company you are dealing with, including us.
By the One6 team · Updated
Common warning signs
- You are asked to pay: for training, a starter kit, software, equipment, a "deposit" or to unlock tasks
- The offer arrives out of the blue on a messaging app and moves fast, with no application or test
- Pay is described as unusually high for very little work
- "Tasks" involve liking posts, rating products or topping up an account balance before you can withdraw earnings
- You are asked for banking passwords, card details or identity documents before any project or contract exists
- The recruiter uses a free email address or a domain that doesn't match the company's website
What a legitimate process usually looks like
Legitimate AI data work usually starts with an application, then a skills test or trial task, then training on project guidelines. You should see the project's terms, including what the work involves and how it is paid, before you begin.
At One6, you apply through the form on our own website. When a project matches your profile, we share its instructions and terms, including compensation, before any work starts, and you can decline.
Before you accept any offer
- Find the company's official website yourself and check that the job is listed there
- Check that emails come from the company's own domain
- Read the terms: tasks, review process, pay and confidentiality
- Never pay to get work, and never share passwords or one-time codes
- If something feels rushed or secretive, stop and verify
If you think you've been targeted
Stop responding, don't send money, and keep screenshots of the messages. Report the account to the platform where you were contacted and to your local consumer protection or fraud reporting service. If you shared bank details, contact your bank straight away. If someone claims to recruit for One6 and you're unsure, email hello@one6.ai to check.
Frequently asked questions
Are AI training jobs legit?
Many are. Real companies pay people to label data, rate AI responses and record speech. The warning signs above help separate real offers from scams that borrow the same language.
How do I check that a message from One6 is real?
Apply only through one6.ai, and if you are unsure about a message, email hello@one6.ai to check before you reply or share anything.
Read the Contributor Terms and Privacy Policy, learn more about One6, or see all remote AI training jobs.