Crypto Job Scams: Fake Tasks, Big Promises, and Empty Wallets

• crypto-scams
• job-fraud
• messaging-app-scams

Scammers are using fake job ads and messaging apps to trick victims into depositing cryptocurrency for 'tasks'. Learn how to spot the signs and protect your money.

New Job Scam Targets Victims With Cryptocurrency Tricks

Job scams are becoming more sophisticated, especially those involving cryptocurrency. Scammers are targeting Australians through fake job ads and unsolicited messages, promising high income for simple tasks—all while slowly draining your funds.

How the Scam Works

Scammers post fake job ads on social media or impersonate recruiters from legitimate job sites. They also send messages via WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal offering flexible, high-paying roles that don’t require any experience.

The scammer will usually:

• Claim you can work from home on your own schedule.
• Guide you through the job application via messaging apps.
• Help you set up a cryptocurrency wallet and register on a fake job site.
• Ask for personal ID documents like your Medicare card, driver’s licence or passport.

The Trap

Initially, you’ll be given simple tasks such as rating products or completing surveys. You might even receive a small cryptocurrency payment as a reward. This is part of the setup to gain your trust.

Soon, you’ll be asked to top up your account with your own cryptocurrency to continue working or access your “earnings.” They may also dangle “special tasks” that offer higher commissions—but require a larger deposit.

Scammers maintain the illusion by:

• Displaying fake earnings on the scam website.
• Adding you to group chats with other “employees” posting fake success stories and screenshots (usually bots or other scammers).

The cruel twist? You’ll never be able to withdraw any earnings or get back the money you deposited.

How to Stay Safe

• Ignore unsolicited job offers via messaging apps.
• Never send cryptocurrency to people you’ve only met online.
• Don’t provide personal documents unless you’ve independently verified the employer’s legitimacy.
• Check job listings carefully: Look up the company, cross-check contact info, and beware of unrealistic job promises.
• Report scams: If you encounter one, report it to Scamwatch and the platform where it appeared.

If You’ve Been Scammed

Stop all communication with the scammer immediately. Secure your cryptocurrency accounts and report the incident to your exchange provider and Scamwatch. If you’ve shared identity documents, contact IDCARE for advice on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

Crypto scams are evolving rapidly, but by staying alert and sceptical, you can avoid becoming the next victim.