Finding legitimate telework or home-based jobs isn't difficult once you get the hang of it. The key is to use reliable resources and learn how to spot scams. Here are some tips to make your job search more fruitful and less risky.

FOUR RELIABLE SITES FOR TELEWORK JOBS

You can dramatically reduce the risk of scams by searching for jobs on reliable sites. Besides our own RatRaceRebellion.com, here are some good places to pursue your job search.

As you hunt, remember that no one can "guarantee" that an employer or job lead is without any risk -- even The New York Times doesn't do that -- so be sure to do your own due diligence before applying.

--WorkatHomeSuccess.com: Operated by Leslie Truex, who has been in the work-at-home field since the late '90s, this is an excellent site for home-based jobs and resources.

--JobsandMoms.com: This site is overseen by well-known career expert Nancy Collamer, who also maintains a career site for boomers, MyLifestyleCareer.com. For additional resources, see Collamer's new book, "Second-Act Careers."

--Indeed.com: At this job aggregator site, use the advanced job search feature to find home-based or virtual jobs. Here, good search terms for the "exact phrase" field include "work from home" and "work at home" (without the quotes).

Scams will sometimes squeak through, but the ratio is much less than the terrible 61-to-1 ratio you find on the open web. Reduce the ratio further by using the "Show jobs from" drop-down menu and selecting "Employer web sites only." Leave the "Location" field blank to find jobs nationally.

--WAHM.com: Although centered on "work-at-home moms," as the acronym indicates, this site is a good resource for anyone seeking home-based work. Check the forums for feedback on employers and jobs and news of openings. (However, as with anonymous discussions anywhere, take comments with a grain of salt. Disgruntled ex-employees and company competitors can always chime in, too.)

THREE JOB TITLES SCAMMERS LOVE

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