WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new Federal Trade Commission (FTC) report highlights a dramatic rise in online job scams, particularly so-called task scams, which have seen explosive growth since 2020. These scams now account for nearly 40% of all reported job scam cases in 2024, underscoring an urgent need for consumer vigilance.
The FTC’s data shows task scam reports skyrocketing from no cases in 2020 to 5,000 in 2023, then quadrupling to 20,000 within the first half of 2024. These schemes contributed to a significant increase in reported financial losses from job scams overall, which reached more than $220 million in the first six months of 2024 alone. Task scams, in particular, are linked to rising cryptocurrency losses, with $41 million reported lost in such scams during the first half of this year—nearly double the total for all of 2023.
Task scams generally begin with unsolicited messages on platforms like WhatsApp or through text, offering vague online work opportunities. Victims are initially assigned simple tasks, sometimes receiving small payments to build trust. Scammers then shift the scheme, requiring participants to deposit their own money to continue tasks, with promises of larger returns. Once payments are made, victims rarely recover their funds.
The FTC’s report emphasizes that cryptocurrency is the preferred payment method for these scams, making it particularly difficult for consumers to recover lost funds. With millions already impacted, the data spotlights the broader implications of this trend on digital employment markets and the dangers of fraudulent recruitment tactics.
To combat these scams, the FTC advises consumers to be wary of unsolicited job offers via text or messaging apps, avoid paying upfront to earn payments, and disregard offers that pay for online actions like “liking” content. These red flags can help consumers recognize and avoid falling prey to these schemes.
The FTC’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the need for broader public awareness and spotlight the growing complexity of modern online scams. The agency continues to monitor and combat these fraudulent practices to protect consumers nationwide.
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