Question from a reader:
I fell victim to a side job scam and ended up with a debt of 3.3 million yen. I have decided to go for voluntary debt consolidation and will be paying 85,000 yen monthly, but I also plan to start a side job in addition to my main job. Is there anything else I can do from
here? It’s a mentally tough situation.
Introduction
I understand that you are in a very difficult situation after falling victim to a side job scam and accumulating a large amount of debt. It is undeniable that being scammed causes not only financial damage but also significant mental stress. Here, we will consider how you should act moving forward from both a legal and psychological perspective.
Legal Aspects of Side Job Scams
A side job scam refers to actions that lure people in with sweet words like “high income” and “easy to do,” ultimately resulting in financial loss. Here, we will take a closer look at the legal aspects of scams and the measures you can take against them.
Definition of Fraud and the Law
Article 246 of Japan’s Penal Code defines fraud. Fraud is a crime that occurs when someone deceives another person to obtain property, with penalties including imprisonment or fines. In cases of side job scams, it is possible to take legal action against the perpetrator of the fraudulent act.
Filing a Report
If you have been scammed, it is important to first file a report with the police. By filing a report, the police can begin an investigation, which may also help rescue other victims. However, when filing a report, you need to gather solid evidence. Organize physical evidence related to the scam, such as email exchanges and transfer statements.
Options for Debt Consolidation
You mentioned that you are currently opting for voluntary debt consolidation, but there are other options available, such as personal bankruptcy or individual rehabilitation. Voluntary debt consolidation is a process that relaxes repayment conditions through negotiations with lenders, but depending on your future income prospects and the amount of debt, you should also consider other methods.
Psychological Impact and Stress Management
Falling victim to a scam can place a heavy psychological burden on you. In addition to financial issues, many people feel anxiety about their judgment and experience stress from worrying about how others perceive them. Here, we will analyze the psychological aspects.
Psychological State of Scam Victims
When people fall victim to scams, many often harbor self-denying feelings like “Why did this happen to me?” This can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and may trigger depression or anxiety disorders. There may also be anxiety about your judgment and a deterioration of relationships with those around you.
Stress Management and Mental Care
In such situations, managing stress becomes crucial. Specifically, I recommend trying the following methods: 1. Seek Counseling: If the mental burden is significant, receiving counseling from a professional can be very effective. Consulting with a psychologist or psychiatrist can help you organize your emotions. 2. Incorporate Relaxation Techniques: By incorporating meditation, deep breathing, or light exercise into your daily routine, you can reduce stress. 3. Join a Support Group: Interacting with others who have had similar experiences can provide empathy and serve as a mental support.
Options and Precautions for Side Jobs
You are considering starting a new side job, but careful judgment is required. Here, I will detail the points and precautions to consider when choosing a side job.
How to Identify a Trustworthy Side Job
When selecting a side job, it is essential to assess whether the business model is sound. Specifically, you should pay attention to the following points: 1. Verify Track Record: Check whether the side job has a history of success or a trustworthy reputation by researching actual user feedback and reviews. 2. Clear Contracts: When starting a side job, ensure that the contract terms are clear. Ambiguous contracts can lead to trouble later on. 3. Options with Low or No Initial Costs: It is advisable to choose side jobs that do not require excessive initial investment. While hoping for positive outcomes, it is important to minimize risks.
Balancing with Your Main Job
It is also essential to maintain a balance with your main job. If starting a side job negatively impacts your main job, it defeats the purpose, so it is recommended to be mindful of the following points: 1. Time Management: Properly manage the time spent on your side job to avoid affecting your main job. Review your daily schedule and aim for efficient activities. 2. Ensure Rest: To maintain mental health, rest is necessary. Stress from overwork can adversely affect your mental well-being.
Conclusion
Falling victim to a side job scam and accumulating debt is a very painful experience, and both legal measures and psychological care are necessary. It is crucial to take legal action first while caring for your mental health, and then work on starting a new side job. Aim to choose a trustworthy side job while balancing it with your main job, and strive to rebuild your life without overextending yourself. Ultimately, it is important to believe in yourself and take one step at a time.
