PART-TIME JOB SCAM on Social Media: Beware of Growing WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram Fraud

Introduction

Did you know the Facts about Cyber crime -

• From 2022 to May 2023 National cybercrime portal got 21 lakh cases, FIRs in only 2%

• 200% spike in cyber fraud cases this year, recovery, arrest low till Aug 2023 year:

• Over 500 million cyberattacks were blocked in Q1 2023 out of a billion attacks globally, as per the State of Application Security Report' by Indusface.

• Over 500 million attacks were blocked in the first three months of 2023

• The banking and healthcare industries were the most hit with bot attacks

In today's digital age, the internet has become an indispensable part of our lives. While it brings convenience and connectivity, it also opens doors for various forms of fraud and scams. One such prevalent scam is the part-time job scam on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram. In this blog, we will delve into the details of this scam, its red flags, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to it.

Have you ever received Whatsapp Messages from an Unknown Sender offering the simplest Job with which they say you can earn up to 2000 to 3000 Rupees per day?

They will say, you only have to Like & Subscribe to a few Youtube Videos or give Star-rating Reviews for businesses through Google Maps. They initially offer 160 Rupees (The amount can vary) for rating 3 businesses on Google Maps or for liking or subscribing to 3 Youtube videos.

Do they pay you after completing this task? YES, THEY DO! The scam happens after you complete two or three steps.

Can you believe people actually Lost Lakhs of Rupees by falling into this trap ?!

The Rise of Part-Time Job Scams

With the rise of remote work and the gig economy, the demand for part-time job opportunities has increased significantly. Unfortunately, this surge has attracted the attention of cybercriminals looking to exploit job seekers. Social media platforms, with their massive user bases, have become fertile grounds for these scams.

How the Scam Works

Part-time job scams typically follow a similar pattern:

1. Luring with Lucrative Offers: Scammers pose as potential employers or recruitment agencies, promising high-paying part-time jobs with flexible hours and minimal qualifications.

2. Request for Personal Information: Victims are asked to provide personal information such as full name, address, phone number, and even banking details for salary transfer.

3. Advanced Fee Payment: The scammer may ask for an upfront payment for various reasons, such as processing fees, training materials, or background checks. Legitimate employers do not require you to pay to get a job.

4. Fake Job Assignments: Once the initial payment is made, victims are often given fake assignments or tasks that yield no real income.

5. Disappearing Act: After the payment is received, the scammer disappears, leaving the victim in financial loss and frustration.

Recognizing Red Flags

To protect yourself from falling prey to part-time job scams on social media, be vigilant and watch out for these warning signs:

1. Too Good to be True: If a job offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of high-paying jobs with minimal requirements.

2. Request for Personal Information: Legitimate employers do not require sensitive information upfront. Be cautious if you're asked for personal details early in the recruitment process.

3. Upfront Payments: Never pay money to get a job. Legitimate employers cover the costs of hiring, including background checks and training materials.

4. Unprofessional Communication: Poor grammar, spelling mistakes, and generic email addresses can be indicators of a scam.

5. Lack of Company Information: Scammers often avoid providing verifiable information about the company, such as a physical address or website.

Protecting Yourself

To safeguard yourself from part-time job scams on social media, follow these steps:

1. Research the Company: Look for a legitimate online presence, including a professional website and active social media profiles. Check for reviews and testimonials from current or former employees.

2. Verify Contact Information: Ensure that the contact information provided matches the company's official details. If in doubt, contact the company directly through their official channels.

3. Never Pay Upfront: Be cautious of any requests for upfront payments. A legitimate employer will cover all necessary expenses related to hiring.

4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Part-time job scams on social media are a growing threat in today's digital landscape. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. Remember to verify the legitimacy of any job offer, and never hesitate to seek advice from trusted sources. Your online safety and financial security should always be a top priority.

I got information from forbes Please check here with facts https://www.forbesindia.com/video/explainers/parttime-job-scam-beware-of-growing-whatsapp-and-telegram-fraud/84823