Deffo a scam IMHO...

Avoid paying a deposit up front, esp. a relatively large amount like that...

And don't be fooled by Thailand being the land of smiles, while you are dining and downing the tiger beer in one room, in the next room they may be discussing how to cheat you and cut down your pay on your contract in the next room.

Personally I would avoid Thailand as a place to work, but I have heard others love it.

GL, Merry xmas,
TL