Do "work-at-home" online schemes work?

Yes and no. The rule of thumb is to be realistic. If it's too good to be true, that's because it is. Study the scheme for its merits and flaws. To do that, search the web for comments in forums by others - pay close attention to the downside. Keep a close watch on related events, be alert to changes.

Safe bets are renowned Affiliate or Referral programs which receive a lot of news coverage online. Once you have decided on one or more, do your homework and learn how to market effectively using all the tools available - build your own presence!