Online platforms have created many opportunities for young people to earn, learn and promote their skills. However, fraudsters are also using social media, WhatsApp groups, Telegram channels and direct messages to promote fake jobs and quick-money schemes.
Young people should be cautious of online offers that require an upfront “registration”, “activation”, “training” or “commitment” fee. They should also be alert to promises of unusually high earnings for simple tasks such as liking posts, forwarding messages, watching videos or recruiting friends.
A genuine opportunity should have clear details about the organisation, the work, payment terms and contact persons. Be careful where there is no formal interview, no official communication channel, no written agreement or where you are pressured to pay immediately.
Parents should encourage children and young people to:
- Verify the opportunity before making any payment.
- Avoid paying upfront fees to access a job or online task.
- Not share passwords, OTPs or login codes with anyone.
- Avoid sharing National ID details, student cards, bank information or mobile money details with unknown persons online.
- Seek guidance from a parent, guardian, teacher or trusted adult before joining unfamiliar online schemes.
- Avoid inviting friends into online opportunities they do not clearly understand.
- Report suspicious online offers to the relevant platform or service provider.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak to children and young people about online work offers and to remind them to seek guidance before paying, clicking links or sharing personal information.
Stay alert. Choose safe online hustles and protect your money, identity and personal information.