Beware of click farming scams
What are click farming scams?
Click farming scams promise easy money for simple online tasks, such as liking posts, following pages and subscribing to content. Scammers often pretend to work for well-known companies, like travel platforms. They target those looking for extra income by starting with small payments to build trust, then ask for large investments before disappearing.
How do click farming scams work?
Click farming scammers use a series of carefully planned steps to gain trust before stealing money.
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Making initial contactScammers add victims randomly to groups on messaging apps, like WhatsApp, WeChat or Telegram. These groups often use names of real businesses to appear credible.
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Building trustVictims are asked to do simple tasks, such as liking posts, following pages, or buying packages. Scammers pay small commissions to gain trust.
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Asking for moneyOnce there's trust, scammers ask victims to send money to specific accounts as top-ups or advance payments to unlock tasks with higher commissions.
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Disappearing with your moneyVictims can't get their earnings because scammers make different excuses to block withdrawals. Scammers might even ask for extra fees, like caution money, or simply disappear.
How to spot red flags of click farming scams
Spotting warning signs early can protect you from click farming scams. Look out for these red flags:
Promises of unrealistically high returns
Offers that promise 'high return, low risk' or 'risk-free profits' should raise suspicion. Real income opportunities need effort and involve some risk.
Unofficial payment methods
Scammers ask for money transfers to personal or unknown bank accounts instead of official payment channels. Real employers use secure and verified payment systems.
Unofficial communication channels
Scammers only communicate through instant messaging apps. Real companies reach out through official websites, platforms, email, or hotlines.
How to prevent click farming scams
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Beware of unsolicited job offersBe careful with unsolicited job offers and 'easy money' chat groups. Promises of high pay for liking, subscribing or simple tasks are likely scams.
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Verify through official channelsVerify job offers with the company's official website or hotline. Don't trust group invitations or messages without proof.
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Never pay to workScammers often ask victims to pay to unlock tasks. Remember you shouldn't pay to work.
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Use fraud detection measuresWhen in doubt, contact the police's Anti-Deception Coordination Centre (ADCC) Anti-Scam Helpline at 18222 for help. You can also use the Scameter or Scameter+ app to check suspicious phone numbers, URLs or receiving accounts.
HSBC is committed to protecting your financial security. Think you might have come across a click farming scam? Please contact us at:
HSBC Global Private Banking customers: (852) 2233 3033
HSBC Premier Elite customers: (852) 2233 3033
HSBC Premier customers: (852) 2233 3322
Other personal banking customers: (852) 2233 3000
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