Can you get paid to do what you’re already doing — browsing, shopping, or just scrolling online?
Yes, you can.
Believe it or not, there are legit companies that will pay you simply to use the internet. These businesses collect anonymous data, offer cashback, or reward your online activity, and in return, you earn passive income or gift cards with little to no extra effort.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or just want to make your time online a little more profitable, here are 13 trustworthy companies that pay you for using the internet.
1. Swagbucks
How it works:
Swagbucks pays you for completing simple online activities: watching videos, shopping, playing games, and searching the web. You earn points (called SB) that you can redeem for gift cards or PayPal cash.
Why it’s great:
- Daily bonuses
- Referral rewards
- Multiple ways to earn
Potential earnings: $5–$20/month with casual use
2. InboxDollars
How it works:
InboxDollars is similar to Swagbucks. You get paid for watching ads, reading emails, taking surveys, and even browsing certain websites.
Why it stands out:
- $5 sign-up bonus
- Straightforward cash rewards (no points system)
Potential earnings: $10–$30/month, depending on activity level
3. Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel
How it works:
Nielsen, the famous TV ratings company, also runs a panel that collects internet usage data. Once you install their app or software, it quietly runs in the background and tracks how you use the web.
Why it’s passive income:
- Set it and forget it
- No effort required once installed
- Anonymous data collection
Potential earnings: Up to $50/year
4. Honeygain
How it works:
Honeygain pays you to share your unused internet bandwidth. Once installed, it runs in the background and connects to a network used for market research and SEO analysis.
Why people love it:
- 100% passive
- Doesn’t affect your browsing speed
- Easy PayPal payouts
Potential earnings: $20–$50/month, depending onthe data shared
5. UpVoice
How it works:
UpVoice is a Chrome extension that rewards you for visiting major websites like YouTube, Facebook, Amazon, and LinkedIn. Your anonymous browsing data helps companies improve their advertising.
Why it’s easy:
- Install once
- Earn automatically while browsing
- Redeem gift cards
Potential earnings: Around $75–$100/year
6. MobileXpression
How it works:
Install the MobileXpression app on your phone and let it track your mobile browsing behavior. In return, you earn weekly rewards — usually in the form of gift cards.
Why people use it:
- Weekly giveaways
- Low effort
- Suitable for both Android and iOS
Potential earnings: $20–$50/year in gift cards
7. Pinecone Research
How it works:
Pinecone Research invites users to complete surveys and sometimes product testing based on their online behavior. It’s invite-only, but worth joining if you get in.
Why it’s worth it:
- High-paying surveys ($3–$5 each)
- Trusted and well-established
Potential earnings: $30–$100/month, depending on availability
👉 Search for Pinecone Research Signup
8. SavvyConnect
How it works:
SavvyConnect, from SurveySavvy, pays you for installing its tracking software on your device. It collects browsing data for market research.
Why it’s legit:
- $5 per month per device
- Up to 3 devices allowed
Potential earnings: $15/month ($180/year)
9. Panel App
How it works:
Panel App rewards you for sharing your location data. It works silently in the background and offers sweepstakes entries or gift cards based on your travel and browsing habits.
Why people love it:
- Passive
- Great for commuters
- Simple mobile app
Potential earnings: $10–$25/year
10. Microsoft Rewards
How it works:
Microsoft Rewards gives you points for using the Bing search engine, completing quizzes, and shopping through the Microsoft Store.
Why it’s great:
- Simple switch from Google to Bing
- Points for things you already do
Potential earnings: $5–$15/month in gift cards
11. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
How it works:
Rakuten gives you cashback when you shop online at partnered stores. You simply install the browser extension or shop through their app or site.
Why it works:
- Cashback at 3,500+ stores
- Big brands like Walmart, Macy’s, Target
- $30 referral bonus
Potential earnings: $50–$300/year based on shopping habits
12. Fetch Rewards
How it works:
Fetch doesn’t pay you to browse, but it does reward you for uploading receipts — digital or paper. If you do any shopping online, this can stack up fast.
Why it’s useful:
- Scan email receipts for Amazon/Instacart
- Works with online grocery orders
- Easy gift card redemptions
Potential earnings: $5–$15/month
13. Tapestri App
How it works:
Tapestri pays you monthly for allowing it to track your location. It’s a newer platform, but many users report reliable payouts and passive earnings.
Why it’s growing fast:
- Background location tracking only
- Simple, no interaction needed
- Paid referrals available
Potential earnings: $5–$25/month
Bonus Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
If you want to turn your internet time into steady side income, here are a few quick tips:
- Use multiple platforms: Don’t just stick with one app. Stack them for more passive rewards.
- Set up a dedicated email: Create a separate email for survey and reward sites to keep your inbox clean.
- Track your earnings: Use a spreadsheet or app to monitor what’s worth your time.
- Refer friends: Most platforms offer bonuses for referrals. It’s one of the best ways to boost earnings.
Are These Apps Safe?
Most of these companies are safe and well-established, but always do your research. Be cautious about:
- Giving out personal financial details
- Apps that ask for too many permissions
- Sites that have no reviews or transparent privacy policies
If a company pays you, it’s because your data or attention is valuable, so make sure it’s worth the trade-off for you.
Final Thoughts: Can You Really Get Paid for Using the Internet?
Yes — and thousands of people do it every day.
While you won’t get rich, combining a few of these platforms can add up to $200–$500 a year or more, all for doing things you already do: browse, shop, search, and scroll.
It’s not about working harder — just smarter. Turn passive time into passive income.
Ready to earn?
Try installing one or two apps this week and see how quickly your rewards grow. Even 10 extra bucks a month can pay for your Netflix, a few coffees, or your next gift card splurge.
Want a list of the highest-paying referral programs among these platforms? Let me know — I can put that together for you!
Let me know if you’d like a PDF version or want help promoting this on Pinterest or Medium!
