In announcing the sweep, the FTC cautioned consumers that a request for up-front fees coupled with a refund guarantee can be a red flag that a job search firm is acting fraudulently. The FTC also cautioned consumers to be wary of firms that require consumers to provide credit card or bank account information, but promise that no immediate charges or debits will occur. The Commission vote to approve the settlements for filing in court was 5-0. They were filed April 7 in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, Western Division. A consent judgment is for settlement purposes only and does not constitute an admission by a defendant of a law violation.
Consent judgments have the force of law when signed by the judge.