An app called Freecash – Earn Money, which claims to offer users a way to make money by playing mobile games, answering surveys, and shopping online, has surged in popularity on both Apple's App Store and Android's Google Play Store. The app ranks highly among free entertainment downloads, surpassing even established platforms like Netflix and TikTok. Its description entices users with the prospect of earning "real money" in their spare time, boasting a high user rating of 4.6 out of 5 on the App Store based on over 13,000 reviews.
Upon downloading the app, users create a profile and select their preferred cash-out method, which can include PayPal, Visa, Amazon gift cards, or bank transfers. The app then prompts users to specify their gaming habits and desired daily earnings. In one test, a user aiming to earn £20 within 15 minutes was presented with a selection of games, including Bingo Blitz, Board Kings, and Spin N'Candy. A specific offer for Bingo Blitz promised earnings of £340.
Downloading Bingo Blitz via a provided link led to a standard online bingo game. Despite the app's promise of earning cash, the user found the gameplay confusing and earned nothing within the initial 15-minute period. To achieve higher levels and potentially earn rewards, players might need to invest significant time. Online forums suggest that reaching certain game milestones, such as level 70 in Bingo Blitz, could take a day and a half of play, equating to a low hourly wage. A Freecash spokesman stated that a specific Bingo Blitz offer promising up to £55 for reaching level 70 is no longer available, with current tasks requiring longer engagement for lower rewards.
Companies like Freecash operate by partnering with advertisers who pay to reach the app's user base, which reportedly exceeds 80 million people. Freecash states it does not sell user data but shares advertising revenue with users as rewards for engagement and completing milestones. Game developers may also use such platforms to attract new players, as a larger player base can enhance a game's appeal and encourage further sign-ups. Psychologists note that playing games, even on a smartphone, can be a social activity when done with others, explaining why firms are willing to pay for new users.
These money-making apps often act as gateways for users to discover gaming apps. While Freecash itself does not disclose its commission rates from gaming apps, estimates suggest it could earn a percentage of the rewards paid out. Furthermore, the "free" games themselves may entice players to spend real money on in-app purchases to progress faster or reach higher levels. For instance, Bingo Blitz offers various credit packages for purchase, starting at £1.99. Experts caution that the cumulative cost of such small, frequent purchases can be significant. Beyond gaming, Freecash also offers rewards for completing surveys, though these typically yield low hourly rates, often under £4.