Is this task scam message a scam?
Commonly seen since 2024. Last reviewed 2026-06-05.
Check your exact messageExample only - do not act on it
Example only: Complete simple tasks like rating products to earn commissions. Top up your balance to unlock higher-paying tasks.
Why this message is suspicious
- Early small payouts are bait to gain trust.
- Being asked to deposit your own money to 'unlock' earnings is the trap.
- The 'balance' and 'earnings' are not real.
What the scammer wants
- Your deposits and top-ups
- Continued payments to 'release' fake earnings
Common variations
- 'Like' or 'rate' tasks for commission
- Small early payouts to build trust
- Top up to unlock bigger earnings
- Group chat with fake 'earners'
Red flags to watch for
What to do now
- Stop topping up immediately.
- Recognise that real jobs never require you to deposit your own money.
- Leave the group and block the contacts.
What not to do
- Do not top up to 'withdraw' earnings.
- Do not pay a 'tax' or 'unlock' fee.
- Do not trust early small payouts.
If you already responded
Act quickly - the sooner you respond, the more you can limit. Find the situation that matches what you did:
If you clicked a link: If you entered details on a 'task platform', change those passwords from a trusted device.
If you paid: Contact your bank or payment provider to try to stop or dispute the transfers, and stop sending more money.
If you shared a code, OTP, or login: Secure any linked account by changing the password and contacting the provider.
If you only clicked the link but entered nothing: close the page, don't enter anything, and watch the linked accounts for unusual activity. Full steps →
If you entered card details: contact your bank now to freeze the card and dispute charges, then watch your statement. Full steps →
If you shared an OTP or one-time code: the scammer may be logging in right now - change the password, sign out other sessions, and turn on app-based 2FA. Full steps →
If you sent money: contact your bank or payment provider immediately to try to stop or recall it, and report it. Full steps →
If you installed an app / gave remote access: disconnect from the internet, uninstall it, and change key passwords from a different, trusted device. Full steps →
If you shared passport, ID, or KYC documents: watch for identity theft, consider a credit freeze or fraud alert, and keep the evidence. Full steps →
Watch out for a second scam. People who've just lost money are often contacted again by a fake "recovery" service promising to get it back for an upfront fee. Legitimate recovery never starts with a fee paid to someone who contacted you - see recovery scams.
First time dealing with this? Start with the first 24 hours after a scam checklist and how to save evidence.
How to report it
Report through official channels for your country. Use our scam reporting directory to find the right authority, and never use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message itself. If an official link looks outdated, tell us so we can review it.
Official sources checked
- FTC Consumer Advice - Imposter scams High reliability
Government alert
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Law-enforcement alert
Reviewed 2026-06-05. See our methodology for how we select sources.
Related pages
- Task scam
- Job offer scam
- What to do if you paid a fake job fee
- What to do if you sent money to a scammer
Related platforms
Frequently asked questions
Why did I get a small payout first?
Small early payouts are bait to build trust before you are asked to deposit larger sums you will never get back.