Job scams have "increased more than threefold from 2020 to 2023 and, in just the first half of 2024, topped $220 million," according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC, 12/12/24).

The latest trend is gamifying job scams called task (or game) scams. Tasks are asked of the user to start for cash, but to complete the game, victims add money. Yep, it's the old pay-to-get-paid scheme, but gamified. People receive these via texts, emails, and ads. Consumer Affairs (CA, 12/12/24) reported yesterday these are related to app optimization or product boosting. Scammers lure victims with small payments and then ask them to invest their funds with a false promise of higher payouts. This is a new layer, but we've seen it before, where they commonly get victims to put skin in the game for a higher return.

Consider this: ANY game not associated with a brand you recognize could collect your private data. LinkedIn and Facebook have games much safer than posts leading to an unfamiliar or unknown site. It’s your decision whether you do or don’t, but your private information may be collected for deviant use.

PCMag published an article relevant to this topic. They tell you how to protect your private information.

New Podcast Episode

I just published the latest conversation about holiday job scams with Ashley, Jay, and me. I wrote a detailed article last week about it, but if you’d rather listen to it, it’s embedded at the top.

I provided a cliff note version of the show below. Feel free to share it anywhere and everywhere. You might want to share a couple of the past shows as great references for anyone who wants to be educated about job scams:

What You Need To Understand About Job Scams

How To Spot a Fake LinkedIn Profile And Its Dangers

Why Scams Increase During Holidays

- The holiday season often leads to increased online kindness and lowered vigilance.

- Scammers exploit this by targeting vulnerable job seekers.

Types of Scams

1. Fake Part-Time Jobs

- Offers generous pay and flexibility.

- Typically remote with vague job duties.

2. Fake Contract Work

- Often involves fake job offers with enticing benefits such as sign-on bonuses.

How Scams Operate

Fake Job Ads:

- Used to collect CVs for non-existent or already filled positions.

- A ploy to build a database to sell or share with other companies.

Data Economy:

- Recruiters use large databases for future opportunities or sell under GDPR compliance.

Strategies to Combat Scams

Vigilance:

- Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of job offers.

Preparation:

- Stay informed about common scam tactics and red flags.

Comments & Reactions

-Juliann Barcal: Surprised by the extent of scams, expresses distrust in AI.

- Barb Buckner: Notes the prevalence of scams on platforms like TikTok.

- Colin Rawlinson: Highlights the fake job ad phenomenon and explains the recruiters' motives behind it.

If you want to follow our live conversation, here you go.

Additional Insights

- Being cautious with personal information and financial transactions when dealing with job offers is essential.

- Emphasis on not trusting overly attractive job offers without proper validation.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe