CCTV Exposes Deceptive practices in Online Dubbing “Training” Schemes
BEIJING – A recent report by China Central Television (CCTV) has uncovered a widespread scam targeting individuals with promises of high-paying, part-time work in online dubbing. The investigation reveals that these schemes,advertised as “free training,” are largely fraudulent,designed to extract fees and,critically,push participants into taking out loans they cannot afford.
The schemes lure potential recruits with the allure of easy income, requiring onyl basic skills and offering flexible hours. However, after signing contracts and paying initial tuition fees – such as the 480 yuan charged for the frist month in one case highlighted by CCTV – participants discover the training materials are often low-quality, consisting of blurry, pre-recorded videos. Attempts to earn income through assigned dubbing work yield no returns.
When participants attempt to withdraw from the programs, they are often hit with hefty cancellation penalties, such as the 2,000 yuan penalty cited in the CCTV report.
Zhu Wei, an expert with the china Consumers Association and associate professor at China University of Political Science and Law, stated that such penalty clauses are “overlord terms” – invalid under both the Consumer Rights Protection Law and the Civil Code. He explained these clauses unfairly benefit operators, deprive consumers of legal rights, and even hinder their ability to seek refunds.
Guo Yaozong, deputy director of the Complaints Department of the China Consumers Association, noted a surge in consumer disputes stemming from these “zero-foundation, high-paying part-time job” advertisements.He highlighted the concerning practice of institutions promoting “learn first,pay later” models coupled with encouragement to use installment loans to cover tuition costs,effectively inducing consumers into debt. Guo recommended increased financial regulatory oversight of these “training loan” arrangements to mitigate associated risks.