How to spot and avoid task scams on WhatsApp, Telegram
The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert warning the public about the growing threat of task scams, also known as gamified job scams, which are increasingly being used to defraud individuals through messaging platforms. According to the FTC, these scams begin with an unexpected message on WhatsApp, Telegram, text message, or social media, offering quick money through simple online tasks such as "optimisation" or "product boosting." The FTC warns that there are no commissions, and only the scammers make money. Scammers may even pay small amounts, typically between $5 and $20, to gain the victim's trust.
Once trust is established, victims are told they must deposit their own money, usually in cryptocurrency, to unlock and complete the next set of tasks and withdraw their supposed earnings. The FTC advises the public to ignore generic or unexpected job offers, as legitimate employers will never contact individuals that way. Consumers are also warned never to pay anyone to get paid or to secure a job, as that is a sure sign of a scam. Additionally, individuals should not trust anyone who claims to pay for positive ratings or online likes, as no honest company engages in such practices.
Quick Summary
The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a consumer alert regarding task scams, also known as gamified job scams, which are
Summary - read the full story for complete context.
Image: MyJoyOnline
Also covered by
GhanaFront aggregates news from trusted sources. Click to read the original article.
Keywords
Explore related tagsMore from MyJoyOnline
Related Stories
More from Technology
Samsung cuts US jobs, offers relocations ahead of HQ move
Samsung's recent moves in its U.S. offices are raising questions about the future direction of its consumer electronics business.
12h ago•4 min read
Wontumi's conviction should open wider galamsey crackdown - Kenneth Ashigbey
A prominent anti-galamsey advocate believes a recent court decision could mark a pivotal moment in Ghana's fight against illegal mining, hinting at
2h ago•4 min read
NPP has collapsed; I'll beat Sammy Awuku in Akuapem North MP race - K.K. Fosu
Will K.K. Fosu's independent bid truly shake up the Akuapem North political landscape against a seasoned opponent?
3h ago•2 min read
Mahama says Ghana may co-host AFCON with Côte d'Ivoire after stadium upgrades
Ghana is eyeing a return to hosting the AFCON, with President Mahama suggesting a potential joint bid with a neighboring country.
5h ago•2 min read
