QNET Case: A major crypto job scam has come to light where thousands of Bangladeshi workers were tricked into investing their money, believing they were working for OpenAI. The fraudulent scheme, called “OpenAi-etc,” promised steady income in exchange for online tasks. However, in August 2024, the platform disappeared overnight, leaving victims with nothing.
How the Fake OpenAI Job Scam Worked
The scam, allegedly led by a person known as “Aiden”, operated through Telegram and a fake website called OpenAi-etc. Workers were asked to:
Invest crypto into the platform to start working
Complete small online tasks in exchange for daily profits
Recruit others to join the program for higher earnings
Many workers were convinced of the platform’s legitimacy, especially after they were encouraged to invest more money and bring in more people. Reports suggest that over 6,000 people in Bangladesh were affected, with total investments reaching $50,000.
Massive Financial Losses After Platform Disappears
Everything seemed normal until August 29, 2024, when workers woke up to find that:
The website was gone
The money had vanished
Aiden and other fake OpenAI employees disappeared
Victims, including teachers and young professionals, lost their entire savings. Some had even convinced friends and family to invest, making the financial damage worse.
FTC Receives Complaints but No Public Action Yet
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received 11 complaints about OpenAi-etc, highlighting how people were tricked into thinking they were working for OpenAI. Some complaints suggest that the company was falsely registered in the U.S. and China, further misleading victims.
FTC officials have not confirmed if an investigation is underway, but OpenAI has stated that it is looking into the matter. Meanwhile, Telegram, where the scam operated, has assured that it actively removes fraudulent accounts.
How to Protect Yourself from Job Scams
With more crypto job scams emerging, it’s crucial to stay cautious:
Verify company emails and websites – Scammers often use fake names similar to real companies.
Never pay money to get a job – No legitimate company will ask for an upfront investment.
Check company reviews and complaints – Look for official records and news reports about the company.
Be cautious of Telegram and WhatsApp job offers – Many scams operate on these platforms.
Final Thoughts
This crypto scam using OpenAI’s name is a warning for job seekers worldwide. While victims wait for authorities to take action, the case highlights the growing risk of fraud in the digital job market. Always verify job offers and be skeptical of opportunities that seem too good to be true.
