Asks for payment or training fees
Legitimate internships never ask for money. Security deposits, laptop fees, and training charges are red flags.
Field guide
Red flags to watch for
Do not let desperation for a certificate lead to exploitation. Learn the patterns fake internship companies use across India.
Referral-based progress
If your task is recruiting more students for rewards or certificates, it is likely an MLM scheme, not an internship.
Instant offer letters
Hired within minutes without a technical interview or proper evaluation? They may want free labour or your money.
MLM or affiliate behaviour
Companies whose model revolves around continuously hiring interns to sell products or services.
Aggressive certificate promises
When they talk more about certificates than actual work or mentorship, proceed with extreme caution.
WhatsApp-only communication
No official email, no professional LinkedIn presence, and all communication on WhatsApp or Telegram.
What legitimacy looks like
- Clear technical interview process
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Defined project goals and learning outcomes
- Communication via official company emails
- Realistic workload and fair treatment
- Focus on learning, not just issuing certificates
Questions to ask
- Who will be my mentor?
- What tech stack will I be working on?
- Is there a real product or is it just a training program?
- Can I talk to previous interns?
- Why is there a fee for processing or training?