Scroll through TikTok long enough, and you’ll probably encounter someone promising to teach you how to make $5,000 a month without leaving your couch. Some influencers claim you can sell digital downloads, create products using artificial intelligence, or earn commissions while you sleep. The videos make it look simple, but a recent real-world experiment suggests the financial reality can be dramatically different.
In an October 2026 investigation published by The Guardian, a journalist tested popular online money-making strategies promoted by social media influencers. The results included hours of unpaid work, unexpected startup expenses, and disappointing earnings.
