Pump.fun, a Solana ecosystem meme token issuance platform, has sparked controversy with its newly launched GO Bounty feature due to some of the tasks. Multiple media outlets have reported that tasks involving forehead tattoos, public humiliation, and high-risk challenges have appeared on the platform. Critics argue that this crypto-reward-driven design could push some users towards unsafe or undignified behavior.
More than $370,000 has been distributed in the two weeks since its launch.
GO launched in early June, positioning itself as a paid task marketplace. Users can link their X account and encrypted wallet to post or accept tasks, with reward funds initially held in escrow by the platform.
According to the New York Post, the feature has awarded over $370,000 in rewards since June 4. There are still approximately 270 open bounties remaining, with a total reward exceeding $200,000.
Previous reports also indicated that shortly after GO's launch, the platform had over 320 active tasks with unclaimed rewards totaling approximately $144,000, with individual task rewards starting from as low as $5.
The missions ranged from public service to dangerous challenges.
Public reports mention that some tasks were relatively mild, such as feeding stray animals or donating clothing. However, some tasks were accused of crossing safety and ethical boundaries.
The New York Post reported that a Filipino man earned a $15,000 crypto reward for tattooing "bounty.fun" on his forehead. Other reported tasks included putting your face in a toilet, filming a resignation video, and even offering high rewards to users to climb Mount Everest.
Wired points out that some bounties put participants in awkward, harassing, or even potentially legal situations. The report also mentions that some submissions appear to use AI-generated images as proof of completion, and the platform allows a single reward to be distributed among multiple submitters.
Platform review pressure is increasing
Criticism surrounding GO is growing. New York Governor Kathy Hochul publicly criticized the feature on X, calling it a "dystopian nightmare" and stating she would support any related ban bills. X product manager Nikita Bier also criticized the feature, saying it shows that people are using money to coerce others into committing humiliating acts.
The controversy isn't just about "internet anomalies." Critics argue that when rewards are distributed directly in the form of crypto assets, users with limited financial means may be more likely to accept tasks they wouldn't otherwise consider. The report states that Pump.fun s users on its platform that participation is at their own risk, but has not immediately issued a public response to the controversy.
This incident has also brought Pump.fun's past content governance issues back into the spotlight. Previously, the platform's live streaming function was shut down due to users engaging in more extreme behaviors to gain attention, and was later restored under stricter review. Now, the GO feature has once again placed Pump.fun at the center of discussions regarding platform incentives, content moderation, and user protection.
