Task Scams Rising on Online Messaging Apps
Fewer Filipinos are falling victim to traditional text scams, but a new threat is emerging: task scams on online messaging platforms. This shift in scam tactics was highlighted by internet security experts during a recent forum.
Scam Watch Pilipinas, an internet security watchdog, shared insights at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay event, noting the decline in text scams and the rise of task scams. “Bumaba. Halos wala na tayong natatanggap na text scam mula sa unknown prepaid number,” said the group’s founder, Jocel De Guzman. “Lumipat na sila sa Viber. Tumatawag na sila ngayon.” (Text scams decreased. We don’t receive as many text scams from unknown prepaid numbers. They moved to Viber. They make a call now.)
From Text Scams to Task Scams
De Guzman explained that scammers have shifted their approach. Instead of anonymous text numbers, they now use messaging apps like Viber where profiles show faces and names, making them appear more trustworthy. They also avoid sending suspicious links, opting instead to lure victims with task-based scams.
“Kapag pumunta ka sa Viber, sa mga messaging app, may mukha kasi yun at may pangalan, so hindi siya unknown, and then wala siyang link. Ang gagawin nila task scam na siya,” he added. (If you go to Viber, to messaging apps, there are faces there and names, so they’re not unknown, and they also don’t use links. What they’ll do is task scams.)
How Task Scams Work
According to Scam Watch Pilipinas, these task scams typically involve scammers posing as employees from well-known e-commerce platforms. They promise easy money in exchange for completing certain tasks.
“Pwede ka kumita, sa una, hanggang P600. Bibigyan ka ng P120, P180 tapos gagawa sila ng e-wallet. ‘Heto na yung kinita mo, pero bago mo makuha yan, kailangan mo matapos yung ganitong mga task. Dito kailangan mo magbayad,’” De Guzman explained. (You can earn up to P600 from it at first. They’ll give you P120, P180, and they’ll create an e-wallet. ‘Here’s your earnings, but before you can get them, you have to finish these tasks. Then, here, you need to pay.’)
Victims are initially given small amounts to build trust, but before they can withdraw any funds, they are asked to complete more tasks or pay fees, trapping them in a cycle of deception.
Scam Tactics Evolving on Messaging Platforms
Local authorities and security watchers observe that scammers are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting the trust people place in familiar messaging apps. This evolution makes it harder for users to distinguish legitimate offers from scams.
Experts advise vigilance when approached with offers involving tasks or upfront payments, even if the sender appears genuine. They urge the public to verify any suspicious messages and report scams promptly.
For more news and updates on online scams, visit Filipinokami.com.