Some Mystery shopping scams that you can avoid

[Yusra]

Mystery shopping scams are becoming more and more common. There are a few things you can do to avoid being scammed:

1) Do your research. Make sure you know what the company you're applying to is reputable and legitimate. There are a few ways to do this:

2) Check online forums and reviews. See if other people have had positive or negative experiences with the company.

3) Do a Google search of the company name + "scam." This will bring up any news stories or complaints about the company that have been reported.

4) Be wary of companies that ask for money up front. While some legitimate companies may charge a small fee for background checks or materials, you should never have to pay anything to apply to be a mystery shopper. If a company asks for money, it's probably a scam.

5) Don't give out personal information unless you're sure the company is legitimate. Be careful about giving out your Social Security number, credit card information, or bank account information until you're sure the company is on the up-and-up.

6) Be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers. If a mystery shopping opportunity sounds too good to be true (e.g., getting paid $100 to shop at a store for an hour), it probably is too good to be true. Don't let yourself be taken advantage of by scammers promising easy money for little work.

 

[Knowlopedia]

Here are some common mystery shopping scams to look out for:

1. Fake job postings. Many fake job postings are made on legitimate job boards and websites. These postings are often for mystery shopping jobs that require you to pay a fee for the “privilege” of being a mystery shopper. Avoid any mystery shopping job that requires you to pay money upfront.

2. Fake checks. One of the most common mystery shopping scams is the fake check scam. In this scam, you are sent a check for a large amount of money that you are expected to use to purchase items. The scammer will then ask you to return some of the money, usually via wire transfer, and then keep the rest for yourself. The check will eventually bounce, leaving you responsible for any money you sent to the scammer.

3. Unsolicited emails. Be wary of any emails offering you money to become a mystery shopper. Most legitimate mystery shopping companies will not contact you unsolicited and if they do, they will ask for your personal details and contact information.

4. Upfront fees. Legitimate mystery shopping companies will not ask you to pay upfront fees. Any company that asks you to pay money upfront is likely a scam.

By being aware of these common mystery shopping scams, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. If you are ever unsure of a mystery shopping offer, do your research and make sure the company is legitimate before providing any personal information or paying any money.

 

[Learners Quest]

1. Unsolicited emails or texts: Many mystery shopping scams involve unsolicited emails or text messages claiming to offer a job with a mystery shopping company. These emails or texts often include a link to a website or a form to fill out. Do not respond to these emails or texts and do not click on links.

2. Upfront fees: Legitimate mystery shopping companies will never ask for any money upfront, or ask you to purchase anything with your own money. Any company that requires you to pay anything upfront is likely a scam.

3. False checks: Some scammers will offer to pay you with a check that is supposedly from the mystery shopping company. These checks are likely fake and if you cash it, you may be responsible for the money.

4. Unprofessional websites: If you are looking for a mystery shopping job, be sure to research any company you are considering working for. Check for a professional website, contact information, and a clear job description. If the website looks suspicious or unprofessional, it could be a scam.