The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sounded the alarm over a sharp rise in “task scams,” deceptive schemes masquerading as easy online jobs but designed to steal money from unsuspecting victims.
These scams, which resemble gambling in their allure, entice individuals with promises of earning cash through simple, repetitive tasks while requiring them to deposit their own money for bigger payouts.
The FTC revealed that these scams were virtually non-existent in 2020, with zero cases reported. However, the problem has grown exponentially. Last year alone, 5,000 cases were documented, and in the first half of 2024, over 20,000 reports have already been filed. Financial losses tied to job scams have also surged, tripling between 2020 and 2023 and exceeding $220 million in the first half of 2024. Of that amount, $41 million was attributed to task scams.
The Mechanics of Task Scams
Scammers typically approach their victims through unsolicited messages on platforms like WhatsApp, social media, or other communication apps. The pitch seems straightforward: earn money by completing daily tasks such as liking videos or rating products on platforms linked to companies like Deloitte, Amazon, McKinsey, or Airbnb.
At first, the scam appears legitimate. Victims are paid small amounts—usually $50–$60—in cryptocurrency, such as USDT or Ethereum, for completing a series of tasks. The catch comes when the victim is asked to deposit their own money to unlock higher commissions or gain access to the next level of tasks.
Many victims, convinced by their initial payments and the promise of higher earnings, deposit significant amounts of money. Instead of receiving their promised payouts, they find their funds have been stolen. In some cases, victims have deposited thousands of dollars, only to lose it all.
Victims have shared their stories on Reddit, with one reporting a loss of $8,500, while another shared their ordeal of losing $12,800 in the scam. Those who hesitate to deposit money are often added to group chats where fake success stories are shared, further luring them into the scheme.
A Gamified Trap
The FTC likens task scams to gambling due to their addictive nature and the uncertainty of payout. The repetitive tasks and promises of future rewards create an environment where victims are willing to take financial risks, hoping for a significant return.
Cryptocurrency is commonly used in these scams, making it difficult to trace the perpetrators. Scammers also use buzzwords like “product boosting” and “app optimization” to give their schemes a veneer of legitimacy.
How to Stay Safe
The FTC advises job seekers to ignore unsolicited offers for simple task-based online jobs. Legitimate employers do not operate this way, and any job requiring money deposits or promising payments for activities like liking videos is likely a scam.
Additionally, the FTC warns that participating in such schemes is not only financially risky but could also involve illegal activities. Staying vigilant and skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers is crucial in avoiding falling victim to these scams.
