Spotify Reviewer Program Scam Exposed: What You Need to Know
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Imagine getting paid $45 an hour just to listen to music and give feedback. Sounds like a dream job, right? That’s exactly what the so-called “Spotify Reviewer Program” promises. But as the saying goes—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
This article dives deep into the deceptive nature of the “Spotify Reviewer Program,” shedding light on how it tricks users into a never-ending cycle of fake offers and false hope. We’ll explore the inner workings of the scam, highlight warning signs, and provide actionable steps for anyone who may have been targeted.
Scam Overview: The Truth Behind the “Spotify Reviewer Program”
The “Spotify Reviewer Program” being promoted on websites like spotify.created.app is not a legitimate opportunity and is in no way affiliated with Spotify, the globally recognized music streaming platform. This scam is cleverly designed to resemble a professional, high-paying gig, but its true purpose is much more sinister.
It pretends to offer a job that pays up to $45 an hour for reviewing music tracks. In reality, it’s a funnel into a network of deceptive affiliate marketing schemes. The goal? To exploit users’ time, data, and in many cases, money, while the scammers behind the curtain earn commissions.
What the Scam Promises
At first glance, the website looks credible. It uses polished graphics, clean design, and recognizable branding elements that mimic Spotify’s aesthetic. This level of design professionalism is intentional—it’s meant to make users drop their guard. Here’s what the scam promises:
Make up to $45/hour listening to music
Exclusive access to unreleased Spotify tracks
Remote work from anywhere in the world
No experience required, instant sign-up
Join a growing community of paid music reviewers
The allure of easy money and flexibility is potent. That’s exactly why this scam has hooked thousands.
Red Flags and Suspicious Details
Fake Domain Name: The URL “spotify.created.app” is not tied to Spotify in any official capacity. Spotify’s legitimate services operate exclusively on domains ending in spotify.com.
Lack of Verification on Spotify’s Platforms: A real reviewer program of this scale would be highlighted on Spotify’s own website or social media. The complete absence of this offer across their channels is a massive red flag.
Missing Transparency: Real companies list terms of service, privacy policies, and contact details. This site includes none of these. It’s structured to avoid accountability.
Unverifiable Metrics: The website touts massive engagement—400K+ reviewers and 2.5M songs reviewed. None of this can be verified, and such numbers are likely fabricated to impress and mislead.
Redirects to Shady Offers: After you sign up, you’re immediately sent to a carousel of affiliate landing pages, including gambling promotions like “BetOnRed.” The intent is not employment—it’s affiliate revenue.
No Actual Work: Despite promising paid music reviewing tasks, users are never provided with songs to review. Instead, they face a maze of offers, downloads, and surveys.
Victim Reports and Complaints
Across scam-awareness forums and consumer complaint websites, countless users recount identical experiences:
Being inundated with spam and promotional emails
Submitting personal details that were later misused
Signing up for “free” trials only to find hidden charges on their accounts
Never receiving any sort of legitimate communication or employment opportunity
These firsthand accounts paint a clear picture: this program is not just a harmless ruse—it can lead to real-world consequences.
How the Scam Works
The scam is designed to extract value at every step of your interaction, using manipulative tactics and social engineering. Let’s dissect how it works from start to finish.
Step 1: Catchy Ads and Clickbait Headlines
The journey usually begins with attention-grabbing ads on social media platforms, video sites, or even through email spam. These ads are designed to entice with big promises:
“Spotify Is Hiring: $45/hour to Review Music!”
“Remote Music Jobs Available Now!”
“Get Paid to Listen to New Tracks—Start Today!”
These messages appeal directly to financial need and curiosity, making them highly effective.
Step 2: Landing Page Built to Deceive
Clicking an ad brings users to a slick-looking landing page that mirrors the design and language of official Spotify pages. The site uses:
The Spotify logo and brand colors
Fake statistics for legitimacy
Positive “user testimonials”
A simplified sign-up process with no vetting
The idea is to reduce friction and maximize conversions. It’s not about recruitment—it’s about volume.
Step 3: Personal Information Harvesting
Users are prompted to provide their:
Full name
Email address
Sometimes their phone number or zip code
This data is collected under the pretense of setting up a reviewer account. In truth, it’s often sold to marketing databases or used for more phishing schemes.
Step 4: Affiliate Offer Gauntlet
Once your data is captured, you’re redirected to multiple affiliate offers. These may include:
Surveys requiring sensitive info
Subscription traps with recurring charges
Gambling sites or adult content platforms
Software downloads riddled with adware or malware
Each click and form submission puts money into the scammer’s pockets. None of it brings you closer to employment.
Step 5: Manipulation Through Repetition
To keep you engaged, the platform might say:
“You’re almost done!”
“Complete one more offer to unlock access!”
“Your reviewer account is being prepared—just finish these steps!”
This loop is endless. You’ll never actually gain access to a dashboard or start reviewing music.
Step 6: Viral Spread via Referrals
Some victims are prompted to refer friends in exchange for “faster processing” or “bonus earnings.” This turns victims into unknowing promoters, expanding the scam’s reach.
What to Do If You’ve Fallen Victim to This Scam
If you’ve interacted with the fake Spotify Reviewer Program, take the following steps immediately to protect yourself:
1. Disconnect and Close the Site
Stop engaging with the scam site. Close it down, clear your browser history, and block the URL.
2. Reset Your Credentials
If you reused a password on this site that you also use elsewhere, update your login credentials across these accounts:
Email
Banking
Shopping platforms
Social media profiles
Consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.
3. Scan Your Device Thoroughly
If you downloaded anything, use a trusted antivirus or anti-malware tool to perform a full scan. Remove any flagged files immediately.
4. Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Review your credit and debit card statements for unusual or recurring charges. Cancel any unauthorized subscriptions and report fraud to your bank.
5. File a Report with the Authorities
Don’t keep it to yourself—report the incident to:
Spotify through their official help center
FTC (in the U.S.): reportfraud.ftc.gov
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Anti-phishing groups like APWG
These reports help bring down fraudulent operations over time.
6. Educate and Alert Others
Spread the word on social media, online forums, and review sites. Help others avoid falling for the same trap by sharing your experience.
7. Use Identity Protection Tools
If you provided personal or payment information, consider subscribing to identity theft monitoring services such as:
LifeLock
Aura
IdentityForce
These services can offer peace of mind and real-time alerts if your information is being misused.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Spotify Reviewer Program Scam
Is the Spotify Reviewer Program real?
No, the so-called “Spotify Reviewer Program” is not real. It is a scam that falsely claims to pay users to review music but instead leads them through a series of affiliate offers, surveys, and suspicious downloads. Spotify has not announced or endorsed any such program.
How can I tell if a job opportunity like this is a scam?
Watch for these red flags:
The domain is not an official company site (e.g., anything other than spotify.com)
Promises of unusually high pay for simple tasks
A lack of contact information or terms and conditions
Requests for personal or payment information early on
Endless loops of third-party offers instead of actual work
What happens if I give them my information?
If you’ve shared your name, email, or phone number, expect an increase in spam, phishing emails, or scam calls. If you provided payment details, you may face unauthorized charges or hidden subscription fees. It’s crucial to monitor your accounts and take preventive steps immediately.
Why do they want me to complete other offers or download apps?
These steps are part of an affiliate marketing scheme. The scammers earn commissions every time someone signs up for a service, downloads an app, or enters their information. You’re not progressing toward any real job—you’re just generating revenue for the scammers.
Can I really earn $45/hour from Spotify?
No. Spotify does not offer a program that pays individuals $45/hour to review music. Any site or ad making this claim is not affiliated with Spotify and is most likely fraudulent.
I clicked on the ad but didn’t submit anything. Am I still at risk?
If you didn’t enter any information or download files, you’re likely safe. However, clear your browser cache and consider scanning your device for malware to be cautious. Avoid revisiting the site and block the domain from your browser.
What should I do if I downloaded something?
Immediately run a full antivirus and anti-malware scan using reputable software. If you notice unusual device behavior, consider performing a factory reset or getting professional tech support to inspect your device.
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Your country’s cybercrime unit or consumer protection agency
The Bottom Line
The “Spotify Reviewer Program” scam is a sophisticated trap that exploits trust, curiosity, and the universal desire to earn money online. While it may look and sound legitimate, it’s a carefully orchestrated scheme that leads to wasted time, financial loss, and personal data exposure.
Always verify job opportunities by visiting the company’s official website directly. Be especially wary of any offer that asks for personal data or requires completing unrelated tasks to unlock access. Remember: real jobs pay you, not the other way around.
Protect yourself, stay skeptical, and share this article with friends and family to help shut down this scam once and for all.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
