“Task Based” scams can take a devastating toll

Research by cybersecurity firm Trend Micro has shown that a new form of digital fraud has emerged. One that is draining potential job seekers of tens of thousands of dollars and ruining lives.

“Task Scams”, ones that through impersonation of legitimate companies, lure potential victims in by effectively gamifying the recruiting process, targeting potential marks and extracting money from them in ever increasing amounts.

Trend Micro describe task scams as “false employment opportunities that promise compensation …… in exchange for completing simple and repetitive tasks such as liking videos or submitting product reviews on a website designed to create the illusion of earning commissions with each submission”

It all starts with scammers reaching out through recognised communications channels such as SMS, WhatsApp & Telegram claiming to be legitimate companies for jobs with vague descriptions but offering rewards for those looking to earn a little bit extra from a side gig or other means to supplement or replace their current income stream.

Once the victim is identified they are enticed by achieving VIP levels, reward streaks, and other incentives to remain on the hook. Small payments are even made in the early stages to build trust.

The sting occurs when potential stakes are increased by dangling potential high payoff rewards in front of them but only when deposits are paid to participate and crucially required in order to retain all the credits already achieved in previous tasks.

Unlike the scattergun approach of most scams where enough targets give up a small amount before realising their mistakes, this new form of fraudulent activity is designed to retain you as long as possible until it is too late. Trend reports that scammers are transferring millions via cryptocurrency wallets, with victims losing between hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars each

Victims report a high emotional toll, often describing behaviours akin to gambling addiction.

Trend Micro lists the 6 steps to lessen your risk of becoming a victim of task scams. They are:

1. Do not respond to unsolicited job offers received via text messages or messaging apps. If you are contacted by an unfamiliar number, it is best to verify the person’s identity before engaging with them. If they claim they received an application from you, double check if the company they claim to be is one you have actually interacted with.

 2. Verify the legitimacy of the employer through official channels. This can be done by contacting their HR department on LinkedIn or calling the company directly.

 3. Be wary of job offers that don’t involve an interview or those that request payment upfront. Remember that legitimate employers do not ask employees to pay for the opportunity to work and will not ask for payment for applications, training, or equipment.

 4. Be skeptical of job offers that promise unusually high compensation for tasks like liking social media posts or reviewing products online. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. In some cases, for the first few days, compensation is provided. The fraudsters do this to gain your trust and ultimately convince you further down the line that you will get your money back.

 5. Be constantly vigilant. Consult trusted friends and family members for an objective perspective on any job offers you receive. If you suspect suspicious activity, report it to scamwatch, the social media platform you saw it on, or other authorities. Stick to reputable job search websites to reduce the risk of encountering scams.

 6. Be cautious when sharing personal information until you are certain the job offer is legitimate. Verify the contact details provided in the job offer using professional email addresses and phone numbers. Your safety and security should always be a priority.

Unfortunately in this day and age you have to assume the worst when things seem too good to be true