A concerning trend is emerging within the Telegram "Tap to Mine" space, particularly involving the TON ($TON) cryptocurrency, that threatens to undermine the entire ecosystem. What once offered users a chance to earn tokens through free airdrops is now becoming an exploitative practice, putting the concept of free participation at risk.
The Shift in Airdrops: What Went Wrong?
Historically, blockchain projects used airdrops as a way to attract new users and build communities. Participants could simply complete tasks or sign up to receive free tokens, making it an accessible way to engage without any financial barriers. However, this model is changing drastically. Many projects are now requiring users to complete TON transactions to qualify for these airdrops. What was once a nominal fee for on-chain verification (around 0.1 TON) has ballooned to 1 TON or more. This shift is straying from the core idea of free airdrops and is transforming into something far more exclusionary.
Exploiting Users: When 0.1 TON Becomes 1 TON or More
While 0.1 TON for verification may seem reasonable, certain projects are demanding much more—sometimes 1 TON or higher—just to qualify for participation. This not only benefits the projects but places an unfair financial burden on users, especially those who can’t afford daily contributions. As more projects adopt this practice, it risks turning the ecosystem into an elitist space, accessible only to those with the means to pay. Worse, there’s the potential for scams, where users pay TON for promises of rewards that never materialize, as seen with the MOONORIX scam.
A Balanced Solution: Tasks vs. Transactions
A fair solution could preserve the essence of Tap to Mine while still involving TON transactions. Projects could offer a choice: users willing to pay the TON fee could skip tasks, but those who prefer earning tokens through tasks should still have the option to do so for free. This model would keep the platform inclusive and aligned with its original purpose—providing accessible earning opportunities to everyone.
