How to prevent 'job inducement' scams
Recently, online scam have become increasingly rampant, with schemes disguised as 'part-time order brushing' being particularly prevalent. Scammers exploit people's desire to make easy money, setting up elaborate traps that ultimately steal victims' hard-earned money.
Common scam Cases
Case 1: Small rebates as bait, large-scale fund withdrawal and absconding
Scammers usually gain trust by offering small returns at first, then lure victims into making larger investments. They use the promise of "high commissions" as bait and require upfront funds. In the end, they delay and repeatedly ask for more money using excuses like "operational errors" or "account frozen."
Mr. Wang saw an ads in a WeChat group: “Like and complete orders, earn 20 yuan per order, paid daily!” He tried a few orders and did receive small rebates. Then, the other party asked him to upgrade to a “high-return task,” but required an advance deposit of 5,000 CNY, promising “the principal will be returned plus a 30% commission upon completion.” After Mr. Wang transferred the money, the other party claimed there was a “system order hold” and that he needed to “make up the order,” demanding another 20,000 CNY. In the end, the other party blocked him and disappeared.
Case 2: Fake platform, funds cannot be withdrawn
Scammers imitate well-known e-commerce platforms or create fake apps with realistic interfaces, secretly manipulate and artificially modify account balances to create the illusion of profits, and finally block withdrawals under the pretext of 'risk control' or 'tax payment', absconding with the funds.
Mr Li was added to a 'order brushing group' and downloaded a so-called 'legitimate order brushing APP.' The customer service guided him to deposit 1000 USDT to purchase virtual swag. The app showed 'commission credited' but he couldn't withdraw. The customer service said 'you need to complete 3 more orders to unlock the withdrawal function.' After Mr. Li invested another 5000 USDT , the app suddenly shut down and the group was disbanded.
Case 3: A chain of traps, friends and family get implicated
Scammers exploit victims' eagerness to recover their losses by applying psychological pressure, then lure them in under the pretense of unfreezing accounts to recruit more people and expand the scope of the scam. They spread the scheme through trusted social connections to increase credibility and carry out the fraud.
Mr. Zhang participated in a 'proxy shopping order brushing' scheme, where the other party claimed that 'the joint order task must be completed before a refund can be issued.' After he advanced 10,000 CNY, the scammer falsely claimed that 'the system detected an anomaly' and required him to find 3 invitees or family members to assist with verification, or else the funds would be frozen. Mr. Zhang invited his invitees into the group, and as a result, several people were scammed.
How to prevent it?
Stick to principles and never advance funds: Legitimate companies will not charge any “training fees,” “deposits,” or “service fees.”
Beware of high-paying offers: Part-time jobs that promise easy, high salaries are often traps, especially when strangers reach out to you directly.
Verify the authenticity of the company: Please check the company's official website and confirm whether the communication channel is an official account.
Consult before taking action: If you encounter a suspicious situation, immediately consult with friends or report to the police. Do not handle it alone.
Important notes:
Stay vigilant: Regularly stay informed about the latest scam tactics and identify suspicious information.
Save evidence: It is recommended to take screenshots and save all chat records, transfer receipts, recruitment information, and other related materials.
Report to the police promptly: If you have been scammed or encounter suspicious situations, contact your local law enforcement as soon as possible and keep all evidence to assist with the investigation.
Report suspicious activity: If you notice similar scams, please report and provide feedback to official customer service as soon as possible.