QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) warns the public against fraudulent online job offers, known as the "Task Scam," targeting job seekers who are looking for an alternative source of income through social media platforms.

Recently, the PNP ACG has observed a surge of scammers using modus operandi that typically uses enticing social media ads to lure victims with the promise of easy money.

Once a potential victim expresses interest, the scammers initiate contact through social messaging applications, posing as agents representing companies, in a bid to appear legitimate.

At the outset, individuals are expected to complete basic tasks that don't require any initial investment such as liking particular posts, watching videos, or sharing content to earn income.

Once these simple tasks are accomplished, commissions are given right away which gives unsuspecting individuals the impression of additional income opportunities.

As soon as trust and confidence are established, they will be offered other tasks requiring them to choose from various packages, each offering guaranteed commissions.

As victims complete more tasks, the amount they are required to invest steadily increases. When they try to withdraw their earnings, the scammers invent technical issues, blaming victims and demanding more money to fix them. Victims get trapped in this deceptive cycle with no refunds or withdrawals.

In a recent incident, a 25-year-old graduate of BS Tourism Management fell victim to the Task Scam.

On July 9, 2023, while browsing her social media account, she encountered an online job advertisement that piqued her interest.

Subsequently, she was redirected to various social messaging apps, where the majority of the communication took place.

Initially, she invested 300 pesos and was pleased with the commissions she was earning.

However, as she completed more tasks, the amount of money she had to invest also increased. Ultimately, when she attempted to withdraw her funds, she was coerced into providing more money, resulting in an estimated loss of 400,000 pesos.

 “There is no shortcut to financial stability, and it is imperative to verify the legitimacy of offers before making any financial commitments. Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” the PNP ACG in a statement said. (pia-ncr)