Beware of money making offers: they say "you can get a reward from advertising goods on SNS" and induce you to make a large purchase

Recently, many consumers have been induced to buy certain goods on an online shopping website and to advertise the goods on SNS, being told that the amount paid will be covered and a reward will be given. Local consumer affairs centers and the like across Japan received numerous inquiries and complaints about money making offers.

Sample case

My acquaintance introduced me to an advertising agent who said, "You can earn credit card points from purchasing certain goods and advertising them on SNS." I bought about 1,500,000 yen of items specified by the agent such as foods, daily goods, cosmetics, etc. with credit card, and advertised the goods on SNS. Then, the full payment was covered and I gained credit card points. Next month, I bought about 4,000,000 yen of goods. However, no money was deposited into my account from the agent and I was unable to make a payment to the credit card company. Do I have to bear 4,000,000 yen?

Example of money making offer "You can get a reward from advertising goods on SNS"

1. A consumer buys certain goods on an online shopping website.
2. The goods are delivered to the consumer.
3. The consumer advertises the goods on SNS.
4. The consumer reports the advertising to the company which runs side job websites and/or advertising agency business.
5. Soon after confirming the ads, the company covers the payment amount and gives a reward to the consumer.

The inquiries and complaints about money making offers highlighted some troubles encountered by consumers (e.g. "I made a large purchase, but the company did not give me the promised reward. I cannot even contact the company now"; "I was told to return the reward I had received").

Advice for consumers

1. When you find a money-making offer on a side job website or hear about it from your friend, do not swallow it, and make a careful judgment.
2. It's very risky to make a large purchase as you are told. Some consumers made a big purchase with credit card, but did not receive the promised money and had to use their savings or had to borrow money.
3. In case of trouble or concern, consult your local consumer affairs center.