Click Farming Scams | Cyber Security And Fraud

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Beware of click farming scams

Have you ever received a part-time job offer promising to pay for liking pages or subscribing to content? Stay alert – it could be a click farming scam.

What are click farming scams?

Click farming scams promise easy money for simple online tasks, such as liking posts, following pages and subscribing to content. Scammers often pretend to work for well-known companies, like travel platforms. They target those looking for extra income by starting with small payments to build trust, then ask for large investments before disappearing.

How do click farming scams work?

Click farming scammers use a series of carefully planned steps to gain trust before stealing money.

Making initial contact

Scammers add victims randomly to groups on messaging apps, like WhatsApp, WeChat or Telegram. These groups often use names of real businesses to appear credible.
Building trust

Victims are asked to do simple tasks, such as liking posts, following pages, or buying packages. Scammers pay small commissions to gain trust.
Asking for money

Once there's trust, scammers ask victims to send money to specific accounts as top-ups or advance payments to unlock tasks with higher commissions.
Disappearing with your money

Victims can't get their earnings because scammers make different excuses to block withdrawals. Scammers might even ask for extra fees, like caution money, or simply disappear.

How to spot red flags of click farming scams

Spotting warning signs early can protect you from click farming scams. Look out for these red flags:

Promises of unrealistically high returns

Offers that promise 'high return, low risk' or 'risk-free profits' should raise suspicion. Real income opportunities need effort and involve some risk.

Unofficial payment methods

Scammers ask for money transfers to personal or unknown bank accounts instead of official payment channels. Real employers use secure and verified payment systems.

Unofficial communication channels

Scammers only communicate through instant messaging apps. Real companies reach out through official websites, platforms, email, or hotlines.

How to prevent click farming scams

Beware of unsolicited job offers

Be careful with unsolicited job offers and 'easy money' chat groups. Promises of high pay for liking, subscribing or simple tasks are likely scams.
Verify through official channels

Verify job offers with the company's official website or hotline. Don't trust group invitations or messages without proof.
Never pay to work

Scammers often ask victims to pay to unlock tasks. Remember you shouldn't pay to work.
Use fraud detection measures

When in doubt, contact the police's Anti-Deception Coordination Centre (ADCC) Anti-Scam Helpline at 18222 for help. You can also use the Scameter or Scameter+ app to check suspicious phone numbers, URLs or receiving accounts.