With a government shutdown that’s left people without pay, ceased SNAP benefits, and the rising cost of groceries in general, Americans are having a tough time. One way that some people are coping with this hardship is McDonald’s and its Monopoly promotion, where customers can redeem codes in the app in exchange for food and prizes. The problem is, people are desperate enough right now that they’re willing to do anything to exploit the promotional game, and it’s driving both customers and workers alike to the brink.

