Data Entry Job Scam
A fake remote work posting advertising simple typing or data-entry tasks that requires an upfront software fee or training purchase before work can begin, which never materialises.
Also known as: typing job scam, remote data entry fraud, online form-filling scam
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Data entry job scams exploit the widespread appeal of simple, flexible, internet-based work. The posting typically requires no qualifications and promises $15-30 per hour for entering data, processing invoices, or transcribing audio. The scam's mechanism is an upfront cost: a software licence, training programme, or proprietary platform membership required before assignments are available.
Once the fee is paid — typically $20 to $200 — the 'employer' provides login credentials to a low-quality site with minimal tasks, then becomes unresponsive when earnings cannot be withdrawn or when no further assignments appear. The victim has paid for access to a worthless platform.
Some data-entry scams double as pyramid schemes: the 'training material' purchased turns out to be instructions for reselling the same training to others. Workers are encouraged to profit by recruiting other would-be data-entry workers rather than from actual data processing.
Examples
- A job post on a classified site offers $20/hour data entry; applicants are directed to purchase a $49 'software package' to access the job portal that shows no active assignments.
- A 'captcha entry' job promises $0.50 per entry but requires a $35 activation fee and the earnings never reach the minimum withdrawal threshold.