Fraud investigation... Influencer couple hid TikTok income while receiving social benefits

A striking case regarding the concealment of income earned through social media has come to light in Germany. It has been revealed that an influencer couple living in the city of Bremen, who are active on the TikTok platform, hid approximately 54 thousand euros earned from their digital content from authorities while continuing to receive Bürgergeld (citizen's income) from the state. It was reported that a large-scale investigation has been launched by the Bremen Public Prosecutor's Office regarding the matter.

According to information within the scope of the investigation, it was determined that the couple earned a significant amount of income through videos and live broadcasts shared on TikTok, but did not legally report this income. Under normal circumstances, individuals receiving social benefits are required to report all additional earnings from advertisements, sponsorships, and digital platforms to the state. Laws mandate that for those receiving supplementary income, all additional earnings over 100 euros per month must be disclosed to authorities, and the excess must be deducted from the benefit amount.

However, it was determined that the influencer couple did not declare the income they earned to the Jobcenter, thereby preventing their benefit amount from being reduced. While it was stated that the act in question was carried out for a long time, the issue only came to the agenda as a result of a tip-off.

MONEY FROM SOCIAL MEDIA IS NOT EASILY TRACKED

German authorities point out that salaries deposited into banks are automatically tracked in the system in accordance with traditional employment principles. However, it is stated that it is quite difficult to detect digital income transferred directly to personal accounts from platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Recording such income is mostly possible through tip-offs or special investigations.

In the later stages of the investigation, the influencer couple is expected to be required to repay the entire amount of social benefits they received improperly, along with interest. Furthermore, it is stated that the couple could face serious legal sanctions for violating social benefit rules in Germany.

While the incident brings the importance of declaring social media income and transparency in state support back to the agenda in Germany, calls for increased audits regarding similar cases are also rising.

News Source: 12punto