So-called “task scams” – promising compensation for low-level online jobs but instead swindling victims out of personal data, or worse – have exploded in recent months, from less than 500 such scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in all of 2021 to 20,000 reports in the first six months of 2024.

And unlike other types of job scams, they target individuals of all ages in all financial circumstances. Instead of a 40-hour workweek, they offer pay for repetitive tasks like rating videos or applications, downloading or testing software, or similar easy-to-accomplish online duties. Some might even track the victim’s “earnings” in an app as the initial jobs are accomplished.

Then, things turn south.

“At some point, the app or online platform will ask you to deposit your own money — usually in crypto — to complete your next set of tasks and to get your supposed (fake) earnings out of the app,” according to an FTC consumer alert. “But if you make the deposit, not only is your real money is gone, you’ll never get those fake earnings.”

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There are variations on the theme: In some instances, the scammers may ask for bank account information as a way to transfer earnings, but instead sell or use those details to steal the victim’s identity. Whatever the endgame, the scammers’ work has paid off: Job scams (including task scams) cost a reported $41 million in cryptocurrency losses alone in the first six months of 2024, up from $21 million in all of 2023, per the FTC.

Think servicemembers and veterans are safe? Think again: Business- and job-related scams cost the “military community” – those in uniform and their family members, along with retirees and veterans – $38.4 million in 2024, up from $26.4 million the previous year. Victims lost $2,800 on average in 2024, up from $2,600 in 2023.

Stopping Task Scams

Along with traditional anti-scam advice available from MOAA and other outlets, keep the following tips in mind when combating task scams:

• Platform is key. Real job offers won’t come unsolicited via text messages, emails, or apps like WhatsApp. It’s a reason to stop right from the start.
• Don’t pay to get paid. This technique can be found in other scams, such as multilevel marketing schemes, and should be an immediate red flag.
• Follow the money (or don’t). Watch for promises of payments in cryptocurrency, and steer clear of any offer that involves gift cards. These payment methods can be all but untraceable, making it more difficult to recover losses after a scam.

If you’ve been a victim of a task scam or suspect you’re being targeted, file a report with the FTC.