Accessing unreported jobs becomes easier through Facebook groups in Denmark

Accessing unreported jobs in Denmark has become increasingly simple, akin to ordering food online. With just a few clicks on the internet and a search on Facebook, individuals can discover numerous groups boasting thousands of members where informal work is offered and sought. Posts seeking unreported work highlight anonymous requests like “I’m looking for unreported work in the Copenhagen area” or “We are three men searching for unreported jobs, needing startup capital.”

Researcher Camilla Hvidtfeldt from the Rockwool Foundation notes that the existence of these groups is not surprising, as informal work has always been network-based. While there hasn’t been specific research on social media’s role in this phenomenon, she states it is relatively easy to find or offer unreported work, as such arrangements often occur among friends and acquaintances, bypassing official channels.

The breadth of these Facebook groups is noteworthy; five groups analyzed feature at least 2,000 members each, with one surpassing 24,000 members. Researcher Peer Ebbesen Skov observes that about 20% of Danes engaged in unreported work in 2020, and 30% of those who haven’t would consider it under the right circumstances.

While unreported work avoids tax payments, it reflects a somewhat lenient public attitude compared to other forms of deception, such as fare evasion or fraudulently receiving social benefits. Hvidtfeldt explains that many people turn a blind eye to smaller sums for informal services, but large amounts provoke disapproval.

The Danish Minister of Taxes, Rasmus Stoklund, described the sharing of unreported work in these groups as “outrageous” and “shameless,” while asserting that the tax authority is aware of and monitoring such activities. He emphasizes the need for not just increased governmental scrutiny but also for platforms like Facebook to take responsibility for preventing the facilitation of illegal activities. However, Facebook has not yet commented on its awareness of these groups or its actions in response.