In the age of social media, misinformation, and scams can easily spread like wildfire. Recently, a TikTok account shared a video claiming that Canada is offering free job opportunities to individuals from various countries. The video gained significant attention and went viral.
However, HaqCheck implemented an investigation that revealed the video is nothing more than a constructed scam. Not only does it present false information about job opportunities, but it also deceptively showcases locations that are not in Canada but rather in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Scammers often use a variety of ways to trick innocent individuals into accepting deceptive job offers abroad. A common technique is to promise lucrative jobs with minimum qualifications or expertise. These scammers advertise positions that seem too good to be true, such as work-from-home possibilities with large-scale payment. They rely on people who are desperate for work or want to get money quickly.
The TikTok video in question opens with a captivating tale, promising individuals the opportunity to work in Canada without any cost. It showcases picturesque locations, creating an illusion of Canada’s beauty and prosperity. However, closer investigation reveals that the areas represented are not in Canada, but in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
The footage below was discovered in Zanzibar together with claimed by the video as being from Canada. 
TikTok footage | Footage from Zanzibar
TikTok footage | Footage from Zanzibar
The video’s sole purpose is to captivate viewers and redirect them to websites for monetization through Google ads.
The scammers behind the video not only manipulate images and locations but also misuse the reputation of famous TikTokers, including Bereket Tesfaye, an Ethiopian TikToker who is currently residing in Ethiopia. By featuring Bereket Tesfaye and portraying him as someone enjoying the benefits of the scam, they aim to lend credibility and authenticity to their false claims. This exploitation of influencers’ images and narratives further deceives viewers and increases the trust factor associated with the video.
Fake | Original
The TikTok account responsible for the video goes by the name “Ethiocanada“. This account showcases a range of videos, including online job opportunities, immigration ideas for free, and even fake gifts from official organizations like Ethio Telecom. By combining various deceptive tactics, such as falsely associating with official entities and presenting enticing offers, the scammers aim to attract a larger audience and exploit their aspirations for a better life.
The primary motive behind such scams is financial gain. The scammers intend to attract a large number of viewers to their websites, where they can generate revenue through Google ads. By presenting false information and exploiting people’s aspirations for better opportunities, they capitalize on the trust placed in social media platforms.
It is crucial to verify the credibility of sources and cross-reference information from a reliable platform. The deceptive TikTok video claiming free employment opportunities in Canada, while showcasing locations in Zanzibar, Tanzania, serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of scams and misinformation in the digital age. By understanding the motives behind such scams, recognizing the misuse of influencers, and equipping ourselves with knowledge and critical thinking skills, we can protect ourselves and others from falling victim to deceptive practices.
