Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the deceptive practices in the online training industry, where programs marketed as "free training" often lead to hidden costs and unfulfilled promises of high income and job security [1][2]. Group 1: Deceptive Marketing Practices - Many online courses advertise "zero cost, high income, and job security," but these claims often conceal complex schemes that ultimately result in financial loss for participants [1][2]. - Participants, like a university student named Xiao Cai, are lured by advertisements for "part-time online voice acting" that promise easy earnings without prior experience [3][5][6]. Group 2: Hidden Costs and Contracts - After initial contact, participants are offered "free online training," which primarily focuses on how to monetize voice acting rather than providing substantial training [8]. - The training providers showcase impressive earnings from past students, claiming that participants can earn thousands in just ten days, creating a false sense of security [9][11]. - To access better job opportunities, participants are pressured to enroll in a premium course costing 5,760 yuan, despite initial claims of free training [11][13]. Group 3: Consumer Rights Violations - Participants who wish to withdraw from the courses face high cancellation fees, often leading to financial burdens rather than the promised income [17][19]. - The involved training company, Sichuan Lincheng Feiyao Technology Co., Ltd., has been listed in the business anomaly directory due to its inability to be contacted, indicating potential fraudulent practices [22]. - Consumer rights experts highlight that the contracts used by such training institutions often contain unfair terms that violate consumer protection laws [24]. Group 4: Industry Complaints and Regulatory Actions - The online training sector has seen a surge in complaints, with over 27,884 complaints reported in the past year, primarily concerning false advertising and refusal to refund [25]. - Regulatory bodies are urged to monitor and regulate the "pay after learning" model, which often leads to consumers taking on unnecessary debt [27]. - A recent case involving an AI training company revealed that deceptive marketing tactics, including fabricated success stories and false prize giveaways, were used to entice participants into paying for high-cost courses [30][36]. Group 5: Consequences for Deceptive Practices - The involved AI training company was fined 500,000 yuan for false advertising and was ordered to cease illegal activities [39]. - Authorities emphasize the importance of recognizing that skill acquisition and income generation require time and effort, and there are no shortcuts to easy profits [41].