The internet has many ways to earn money, but there are also many scams. Here are five common online business scams and how you can spot them:
1. MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) Schemes
What it is:
These are businesses where you earn money by selling products and getting others to join.
Why it’s a scam:
Most people end up losing money. Only a few people at the top make real profits.
Example:
Herbalife had to pay £200 million in 2019 because of misleading people.
Watch out:
If the focus is more on recruiting people than selling real products, it could be a pyramid scheme.
2. Online Surveys and “Get Paid to Click” Sites
What it is:
These websites say you can earn money by filling out surveys or clicking ads.
Why it’s a scam:
They usually pay very little or nothing at all. Some even ask you to pay to join.
Example:
Sites like Swagbucks and InboxDollars may give small rewards, but most users say the effort isn’t worth it.
Watch out:
Stay away from sites that ask for payment upfront or promise fast, easy money.
3. Dropshipping Scams
What it is:
You sell products online that are shipped directly from the supplier to the customer.
Why it’s a scam:
Some people sell overpriced courses or offer poor-quality suppliers, promising huge profits.
Example:
Scams like “Million Dollar Dropshipping” offer big promises but little help.
Watch out:
Be careful with expensive training programs that say you’ll make quick money.
4. Fake Freelance Job Sites
What it is:
These websites claim to offer freelance jobs but ask you to pay before getting access.
Why it’s a scam:
After paying, the jobs are usually fake or pay very little.
Example:
Sites like FreelanceWorkers.com took people’s money but gave no real job leads.
5. Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers
What it is:
Any online opportunity that promises fast, easy, or huge earnings.
Why it’s a scam:
Real online jobs take time and effort. Scams rely on tricking people who want quick success.
Watch out:
Be careful if it sounds too perfect — it probably isn’t real.
How to Stay Safe:
- Always do research before joining anything online.
- Don’t trust jobs that ask you to pay first.
- If something feels off, it’s okay to walk away.
- Report scams to the right authorities so others don’t fall for them.
Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay alert and protect your time and money.