Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise of AI-related side jobs, highlighting the disparity between the perceived ease of earning money through AI and the actual challenges faced by individuals in these roles. It emphasizes that many success stories are exaggerated and often serve the interests of training institutions rather than reflecting genuine opportunities for wealth creation [5][15]. Summary by Sections AI Side Jobs Overview - AI side jobs are categorized into three main types: metaphysical (e.g., AI fortune-telling), entertainment and consumer goods (e.g., AI stickers and avatars), and practical applications (e.g., AI writing and video production) [7][9][13]. - The demand for AI writing and video production is growing, but the market is becoming increasingly competitive and professionalized, limiting opportunities for non-professionals [16][17]. Challenges in AI Side Jobs - The demand for AI-related services is often overstated, as large companies are developing their own AI tools, reducing the space for casual participants [16]. - The low technical barriers to entry for AI side jobs lead to a saturation of the market, resulting in a decline in quality and increased competition [14][17]. The Role of Training Institutions - Many training institutions exploit the hype around AI to sell courses, often targeting vulnerable demographics such as young people and the elderly with exaggerated claims of potential earnings [18][21]. - The marketing strategies of these institutions often play on fears of missing out (FOMO) and the desire for quick financial gains, leading to impulsive purchases of training programs [21]. Future Outlook - As the AI market matures, it is expected to move towards greater standardization and professionalism, which may raise the entry barriers for side jobs [21]. - Individuals who genuinely master AI technologies will be better positioned to benefit from the evolving landscape, while those relying on superficial skills may struggle to compete [21].

Core Insights - The article discusses the resurgence of AI course selling, highlighting how new marketing strategies have emerged after previous scandals involving inflated claims and false advertising [1][4][9] - It emphasizes the shift from fear-based marketing to enticing narratives of easy wealth, targeting a broader audience including entrepreneurs and the elderly [6][12] Group 1: Marketing Strategies - The AI course selling industry has evolved from emphasizing job replacement anxiety to promoting narratives of effortless wealth accumulation [4][9] - Current marketing tactics include using fabricated success stories and misleading income claims to attract potential customers [4][6] - The target demographic has expanded to include not just students and professionals, but also stay-at-home parents and older individuals seeking financial independence [6][12] Group 2: Business Practices - Companies have developed complex business models that obscure accountability, such as separating payment entities and using vague language in contracts [7][8] - Refund policies are often misleading, with companies using various excuses to deny refunds, thus complicating customer recourse [8][13] - The courses often consist of recycled content from free online resources, repackaged as exclusive knowledge, leading to a lack of genuine educational value [12][15] Group 3: Consumer Impact - Many consumers report dissatisfaction with the quality of the courses, often finding them inferior to free alternatives available online [9][17] - The article highlights the emotional manipulation of consumers, particularly those under financial stress, making them susceptible to these marketing tactics [17][19] - The ongoing cycle of hype and disappointment in the AI education market underscores the need for consumers to maintain critical judgment when evaluating such offerings [19]