With the development of the internet, online part-time jobs have become a way for many people to find extra income, among which "brushing" (fake online orders) is particularly popular. The seemingly easy and lucrative part-time opportunities attract a large number of job seekers. However, with the increasing number of "brushing" scams, this seemingly ordinary part-time job actually hides huge risks.

Common Forms of Brushing Scams

Fake Brushing Platforms

Criminals will post recruitment information through social media platforms, WeChat groups, recruitment websites, etc., claiming to recruit part-time workers for "brushing" work. Scammers often attract job seekers to join so-called "brushing" platforms by posting fake recruitment information. The job content usually requires part-time workers to purchase certain goods; after completing the order, the scammer promises to return the principal and pay a commission.

Pay in Advance, Return Commission Later

In brushing scams, scammers usually require victims to pay a certain amount of money first to purchase goods or recharge their accounts, claiming that "the principal and commission will be returned after the purchase." Initially, the scammer may pay a small commission as agreed to gain the victim's trust. However, as time goes on, the scammers disappear and become unreachable when victims continue to top up their accounts or purchase goods.

Multi-level Agent Structure

In some complex online order-boosting scams, scammers not only require part-time workers to perform order-boosting activities but also guide them to recruit others as "agents," forming a multi-level agent relationship. Each level requires top-ups and order-boosting, allowing scammers to swindle more money through a progressively deeper scheme. The more addicted the victim becomes to this "order-boosting model," the greater their losses.

Fake "Training" and "Tools"

To enhance credibility, some scammers offer so-called "order-boosting training" or "order-boosting tools," requiring job seekers to purchase these tools or courses, claiming they can improve order-boosting efficiency. These tools and courses are mostly useless; victims receive no real help after purchasing them and instead increase their losses.

How to Identify Part-Time Order-Boosting Scams

Excessively High Commissions

If a part-time job claims to earn high commissions quickly, especially with large returns in a short period, it is likely a scam. Legitimate part-time jobs typically do not offer income far above the market average.

**Requires Upfront Payment**

If a part-time job requires you to pay for goods or top up your account before you can start working, it's almost certainly a scam. Legitimate part-time jobs will never require job seekers to pay any fees upfront.

**Unverifiable Companies or Platforms**

When choosing a part-time job, pay special attention to verifying the legitimacy of the recruitment platform or company. If a platform or company lacks clear company information or contact address, and its operating model is opaque, be wary.

**Lack of Clear Job Description**

Part-time jobs should have clear job descriptions and compensation standards. If the job descriptions are vague and there is no clear contract or agreement, it's often a sign of a scam.

**Advice to Prevent Part-Time Online Scams**

**Be Vigilant and Don't Believe in High-Income Promises**

If a part-time job promises an income far higher than regular work, be cautious and rationally analyze whether the job description and income are reasonable.

**Verify the Background of the Recruiting Platform or Company**

Before accepting a part-time job, thoroughly research the platform or company to check if it has legal operating qualifications or reliable contact information. Avoid working with companies or individuals from unknown sources.

Be cautious with payments and never prepay.

Never ask you to pay any fees upfront for any part-time job. Especially without a formal contract and guarantees, never pay any money.

Consult professionals or relevant platforms.

If you encounter a suspected online order-boosting scam, consult relevant platforms (such as labor protection departments, recruitment websites, etc.) or professionals for assistance.

Conclusion

While part-time order-boosting scams take many forms, they all essentially involve using false promises and fraudulent means to swindle money from victims. To avoid becoming a victim, everyone needs to be vigilant, choose part-time jobs rationally, and avoid falling into traps due to greed. In similar situations, promptly report to the police and seek professional legal assistance to protect your rights to the greatest extent possible.