You’re scrolling through your phone when a message pops up on WhatsApp, Telegram, text, or social media.
Someone says you can make quick money online just by doing simple tasks. All you have to do is “boost” products, “optimize” posts, or click links. They say you’ll get paid right away.
Sounds easy, right? Unfortunately, this is likely a task scam — also called a gamified job scam — and it’s designed to take your money, not make you any.
How the Scam Works
- The bait – A stranger reaches out offering online “work” you can do from your phone or computer.
- The fake earnings – You complete small tasks on a special app or platform, and it shows that you’ve earned commissions. The numbers you see? Completely fake.
- The trust trick – To make it seem real, they may send you a small payment, usually $5–$20.
- The trap – Next, they say you need to deposit your own money (often in cryptocurrency) to unlock more tasks or withdraw your “earnings.” But once you send money, it’s gone — and you’ll never see those fake earnings or your deposit again.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unsolicited job offers on WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media. Real employers won’t recruit you that way.
- Requests for payment to get paid — a clear sign of a scam.
- Pay-for-reviews schemes — no legitimate company will pay you to “like” or “rate” products online.
How to Protect Yourself
- Ignore random messages about “online jobs” that sound too good to be true.
- Never send money to someone promising you’ll earn it back.
- Report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Where PC Matic Fits In
While PC Matic can’t stop someone from sending you a scam message, it can help protect your devices from the malicious links, fake apps, and malware these scammers often use to steal personal information.
With PC Matic’s real-time antivirus, ad and scam blocker, and U.S.-based support, you can browse and work online with greater confidence — knowing threats are being blocked before they cause harm.
Bottom line: If someone says you can make money fast by clicking links or “boosting” products, walk away. Your best defense is skepticism — and strong, trusted security software like PC Matic.
