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It’s getting more and more common, as more and more recruitment is happening digitally.
It’s getting more and more common, as more and more recruitment is happening digitally.
Job Scams Are Surging Amid a Tough Market
As the job market remains competitive, scammers are exploiting desperate job-seekers with offers that sound too good to be true.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scams promising quick money for simple online tasks are on the rise, targeting vulnerable people looking for remote work.
It All Starts With a Friendly Message
According to AP, these scams often begin with a personalized message via text or WhatsApp from someone claiming to be a recruiter.
They may comment on your profile or experience, gradually building trust over time to lure you into a fake job that will eventually cost you real money.
Scammers Are Getting Smarter
“Most people who fall for these scams aren’t acting foolishly,” said Kati Daffan of the FTC to AP.
“The scammers are just that sophisticated.”
Losses Have Skyrocketed Since 2020
Reported losses to job scams more than tripled between 2020 and 2023.
And in just the first half of 2024 alone, Americans lost over $220 million to these schemes, according to the FTC.
A growing chunk of that comes from “task scams,” a newer twist on the traditional con.
The Rise of Gamified Scams
Also known as “product boosting” or “optimization tasks,” gamified scams involve clicking, liking, or rating content for supposedly easy money.
Victims see fake earnings add up on an app or website, only to later be told they must deposit their own money—often in crypto—to cash out.
Real Money for Fake Work
These platforms may initially let you “earn” small amounts to build trust. But eventually, they require upfront payments to unlock higher earnings or withdrawals.
Once the deposit is made, the money disappears—along with the scammers.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Job-seekers new to the market, returning workers (like homemakers), and immigrants are prime targets.
Scammers take advantage of unfamiliarity with the job process, language barriers, or financial pressure to manipulate their victims.
A Too-Easy Job Should Raise Alarms
“If the job seems too easy, too fast, or starts with unearned praise—be wary,” says Eva Velasquez of the Identity Theft Resource Center to AP.
Many of these scams feature little to no interview process and promise remote work with immediate start dates.
The Psychological Trap
Scammers often prey on people’s need to feel valued or seen. A compliment can lead to trust, and in a tight economy, even shady opportunities might feel worth the risk.
“People think, ‘I know it’s a little dodgy, but I need the money,’” said Velasquez.
How to Protect Yourself
Stay safe by ignoring unsolicited job offers via text or WhatsApp—especially ones that seem overly complimentary.
Never pay to get paid, and be skeptical of any job that asks you to rate or like products without proper vetting or access to what you’re reviewing.
