Don’t Get Caught in the Trap: How to Recognize and Avoid Scams After Reentry
- Woman II Woman
- 3d
- 4 min read
Reentry is a powerful season of rebuilding — a time to step forward with hope, wisdom, and courage. It’s also a season when new challenges appear, especially in the world of money, jobs, and technology. Scammers know this, and they often target people who are starting over, hoping to take advantage of that fresh start.
At Woman II Woman, we believe knowledge is protection. Learning to recognize the signs of a scam isn’t about fear — it’s about standing firm in confidence and discernment. As Proverbs reminds us, “The wise see danger and take refuge.” Wisdom keeps us safe as we rebuild.
Why Scammers Target People After Reentry
When you’re rebuilding your life, you’re often filling out applications, searching for jobs, trying to find housing, or reconnecting online. Those steps open doors to opportunity — but they can also open doors for dishonest people to slip through.
Scammers prey on hope, urgency, and trust. They may sound kind, professional, or even spiritual. Their goal is to get your money, personal information, or trust. It’s not your fault if you’ve ever been fooled — scams are designed to look real. But the more you know, the better you can protect yourself.
Common Scams to Watch For
Job Scams
Scammers post fake job listings or send messages offering “easy work-from-home” opportunities. They might ask you to pay for training, send your bank info for “direct deposit,” or buy gift cards. These jobs almost always pitch a high weekly/hourly wage for a customer service job, often saying they are an Amazon affiliate or from other large corporations.
→ Real jobs don’t ask you to pay money to get started.
Rental Scams
If you’re looking for a place to live or a good deal online, be careful with ads—especially on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or unfamiliar websites. Scammers often post fake rental listings or sell items that don’t exist.
Common red flags in rental scams:
The price is way lower than others in the area.
The “landlord” is out of town and asks you to send money before you see the place.
They rush you to send a deposit or application fee.
There’s no lease or paperwork.
One of the women we know, who did over twenty years, fell for a scam like this and lost $1,000. It can happen to anyone — the key is to verify and take your time.
→ Always try to see the place in person, meet the landlord, and never send money through apps like Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle unless you’re 100% sure it’s legit.
Credit Repair Scams
These scams promise to “erase your record,” “fix your credit overnight,” or “get you a new identity.” Some charge big fees for services you can do for free.
→ No one can legally remove accurate negative information from your credit report.
Romance & Celebrity Impersonation Scams
Online friendships or relationships can turn romantic fast — sometimes that’s a scam. A person might pretend to be a romantic interest, often saying they’re in the military, overseas, or working out of state, then ask for money.
Similarly, scammers sometimes create fake social media accounts pretending to be celebrities or public figures. They may tell you it’s their “private account” and try to build trust before asking for money or personal information.
→ If you haven’t met in person, and they ask for money — it’s a scam.
Government or Legal Scams
You might get calls, texts, or emails saying you owe fines, missed jury duty, or have a warrant — unless you pay immediately. They may even pretend to be law enforcement.
→ Government agencies don’t call or text demanding payment or personal info.
Reentry Assistance Scams
Sadly, even fake “programs” pop up offering housing, transportation, or job placement for a fee. If you are unsure of a program and want to make sure it is legit, talk to your parole agent or contact an organization that you know and trust (like us!) with your concerns.
→ Legitimate reentry programs don’t ask for money up front.
How to Protect Yourself
Slow down. Scammers use pressure — “act now or lose your chance.” Take your time to think and pray before responding.
Guard your information. Don’t share your Social Security number, bank info, or full birthdate unless you’re sure it’s legitimate.
Verify everything. Look up the company or person online. Check reviews. Use official websites, not links in texts or emails.
Ask someone you trust. Show the message or offer to a mentor, friend, or reentry program staff before taking action.
Listen to your gut. If it feels off, it probably is — that inner warning is there to protect you.
Stay informed. Visit consumer.ftc.gov to read about the newest scams.
If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you think you’ve shared information or sent money to a scammer, don’t panic — act quickly:
Stop communication immediately.
Contact your bank or credit card company to freeze or dispute any charges.
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Report the scam to the platform (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc).
Change your passwords.
Monitor your credit reports for free at annualcreditreport.com.
Reach out for support. You’re not alone, and recovery is possible. Every mistake can become a lesson that strengthens your discernment.
Wisdom Is Power
Part of rebuilding your life is learning who and what deserves your trust. Every day you grow stronger, wiser, and more confident in your decisions.
At Woman II Woman, we believe your new beginning deserves protection. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your progress. Stand tall, stay alert, and know that God’s wisdom is your best defense:
“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.” — Proverbs 4:6–7