KUALA LUMPUR- A woman thought she had secured a part-time job that allowed her to work from home when she was offered a data entry clerk position with an Iranian telecommunications company.

But little did she know that the job vacancy advertised in a local daily was a scam.

The 51-year-old from Gombak did not only have her hopes dashed but also lost RM350 (S$145).

Relating her predicament to the New Straits Times yesterday, M. Ann said she contacted the company on Jan 24 and was scheduled for an interview two days later at an office in Pandan Indah.

"During the interview, a woman by the name of Diana and two men explained the business structure and showed me the products."

However, towards the end of the interview, Ann was asked to pay RM350 as a "securing fee" and was told to start work on Jan 29.

"When I asked about the "securing fee", Diana told me that it was a form of security for those who worked from home.

"Since they offered me the job, I didn't think much and paid the amount on the spot. Besides, the offer seemed genuine and impressive and furthermore I would be working from the convenience of my home."

Ann was offered a basic salary of RM1,100 and other commissions.

Three days later, Ann went back to the office to collect her first consignment, but it was locked.

She checked with the Registrar of Companies and realised that the Iranian based telecommunication company did not have a business address in Malaysia.

She said she has no hope of recovering the money but wanted others to be warned.