I don’t know why you’re acting like it’s difficult.

1) It’s worth it. $10,000 in spend, at 2x is 20,000 points $10,000 spread out over a few sign up bonuses (subs) could easily be $4,000 for 80,000, $3,000 for 60,000, $3,000 for 50,000

Both scenarios are 10k in spending, but you can either get 20,000 points or 190,000 points.

2) And what effort does it really take? Listen to a few podcasts (ChooseFI) or YouTube videos (ask Sebby) or read some blog posts (nerdwallet/mrmoneymustache). No, it doesn’t hurt your credit it helps your credit. If you have basic record keeping skills and care enough to learn something, anyone can do it. Most people are missing one or both of those things and never do it.

3) It’s not a scam. But to remain profitable the company is betting the majority of people will underutilize their programs. Be one of the exceptions who care enough to benefit. I’ve traveled all over the world because of points and I’m not special. Just do it.