Online Job Scam Costs Local Resident Nearly $40,000

BENSON – A 38-year-old Benson woman lost nearly $40,000 after falling victim to an online employment scam that promised easy money for watching YouTube videos and purchasing cryptocurrency.

According to local law enforcement, the woman said she received an unsolicited job offer online. The position required her to subscribe to YouTube channels, watch their videos and purchase cryptocurrency in her own name, with the assurance that she would be reimbursed for the expenses.

The victim complied with the instructions, sending a total of $39,258 in cryptocurrency to accounts controlled by the scammers. She never received any repayment.

Authorities say this type of scam has become increasingly common, often targeting individuals seeking flexible, remote work.

Residents are urged to be cautious about unsolicited job offers, especially those that ask for upfront payments or involve cryptocurrency transactions. Officials recommend verifying job listings directly through company websites, avoiding requests for personal financial information, and contacting law enforcement if an offer seems suspicious.

The incident remains under investigation.