The numbers
The FTC reported that job scam reports tripled from 2020 to 2024 and reported losses rose from $90 million to $501 million (FTC). On April 30, 2026 the FTC warned about recruiter texts that ask you to reply "YES" or "INTERESTED"; replying is the trap (FTC).
Look up the number that contacted you
Carrier, line type and location are free. Private: nobody is notified.
How task scams work
- You "rate products" or "boost apps" in an online platform.
- You earn small amounts ($5 to $20) and may withdraw once.
- Then a "combo task" puts your account negative, and you must deposit money (usually crypto) to continue.
- Deposits grow, and withdrawals never come (FTC, Aug 2025).
What to do
- Ignore unexpected job texts and WhatsApp messages. Real employers do not recruit that way.
- Never pay a fee, deposit, or crypto to get a job or your earnings.
- Check a recruiter by contacting the company through its official website.
- Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) so your carrier can block the sender, then delete them. Report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.