I've had my fair share of unwise investments into E-books. Most of the ways they had explained were already public. It would always frustrate me, but I'm glad I realized the scheme before I coughed up serious amounts. The only way you will ever make money online is on your own with your own ideas. Even if you are looking for work online it is probably passive income. Anyone can make passive income working 10-20 HRS/W in your area and be guaranteed a check. If someone doesn't want to work in person, then they shouldn't resort to online work.