Job hunt or scam front? the tech-fuelled epidemic of side hustle scams

A surge in reported losses to Scamwatch has prompted a warning for Australians seeking online ‘side hustles’, with job and employment scams tripling in 2023, reaching losses of $24.7 million, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

The scams, disproportionately affecting those aged 18-44, often involve promises of guaranteed income for tasks like boosting product ratings on online platforms, highlighting the need for vigilance, particularly on social media.

Jobs and employment scams

Research conducted by the ACCC showed that 2023 marked not only a rise but a shift in the landscape of scams, with a surge in a particular area – jobs and employment scams.

Australians reported more than 4800 job scams to Scamwatch, resulting in losses amounting to $24.7 million, a drastic contrast to the $8.7 million reported in 2022.

What makes these scams so deceptive is not only that they are prevalent but also their efficiency. Even just a few seconds spent watching a video or clicking a link is all it takes for the scam to quickly seize control of your device.

Additionally, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including non-resident visa holders, faced heightened vulnerability to these scams.

Economic pressures

However, the rapid prevalence of scams is not just a technological issue; the ACCC suggested it is also a manifestation of the economic and living pressures faced by households.

As the cost of living experienced a steady rise throughout 2023, continuing into 2024, the need for additional income for many Australians has become a desperate necessity. This nationwide vulnerability helped scammers decipher a way in, targeting those looking for financial relief and a bit of extra money.

“Scammers are targeting people looking for online work in their spare time, promising them guaranteed income from jobs that include boosting the ratings of products and services through an online platform.” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.

“Scammers are trying to catch Australians out by pretending to be from well-known retailers and department stores, or in some cases posing as social media marketing agencies looking for people to boost posts by content producers.

“The victims often report that they responded to an advertisement on social media about a job opportunity. The scammer will then contact the victim directly via encrypted messaging apps such as WhatsApp.”

In a world where the use of technology comes at a cost, the rise of scams in 2023 serves as a reminder that vigilance in the digital realm is no longer a luxury but a necessity.