Looking to make some extra cash? Mystery shopping might be the answer! It’s a legitimate way to earn money while also getting to experience the world of retail, dining, and customer service. However, it’s important to be aware of the many scams associated with this industry. From the "Oops We Overpaid You" scam to the "Make $9,000 a Month!" scam, there are plenty of shady individuals out there trying to take advantage of eager mystery shoppers. To protect yourself, always do your research on the company, be wary of unsolicited emails or calls, and never pay money to apply for a mystery shopping job. If you do come across a scam, don't hesitate to report it to trusted organizations such as the Better Business Bureau, your state Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission, or the Mystery Shopping Providers Association. Stay safe and happy shopping!
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Types of Mystery Shopping Scams
Oops We Overpaid You Scam:
In this scam, the mystery shopper receives a check or money order for an amount that is higher than the agreed-upon payment for the mystery shopping job. The scammer then contacts the shopper, claiming it was a mistake and asks them to deposit the check and send back the excess funds. However, the check or money order is fake, and the shopper ends up losing their own money when their bank discovers the fraud.
Buy Us a Gift Card Scam:
In this scam, the mystery shopper is asked to purchase gift cards on behalf of the company they are supposed to be mystery shopping for. The scammer may provide the shopper with a fake check to cover the cost of the gift cards. After the shopper purchases the gift cards and sends the scammer the card information, they realize that the check was fake, leaving them responsible for the purchased gift cards.
Pay Us to Find You the Best Shops Scam:
This scam involves a company claiming to have access to exclusive mystery shopping opportunities and charging a fee to provide the shopper with a list of the best shops. After paying the fee, the shopper either receives a list of outdated or easily accessible shops, or they receive no information at all. Essentially, the shopper ends up paying for something that is readily available for free.
Oddly Specific Invitation Scam:
In this scam, the mystery shopper receives an invitation to a specific location and is asked to provide personal information such as their Social Security number or bank account details. The invitation may appear official and convincing, but it is a ruse to obtain sensitive information that can be used for identity theft or financial fraud.
Make $9,000 a Month Scam:
Scammers lure unsuspecting individuals with promises of high earnings as mystery shoppers. They often claim that the shopper can make thousands of dollars a month by simply completing a few mystery shopping assignments. However, in reality, these scammers are looking to exploit the shopper's desire for easy money by either charging upfront fees or collecting personal information for identity theft.
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Tips to Protect Yourself from Mystery Shopping Scams
Research the Company:
Before accepting any mystery shopping job, it is crucial to research the company thoroughly. Look for online reviews, check if they are a member of reputable organizations like the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA), and verify their contact information. Legitimate companies will have a professional online presence and clear information about their services.
Don't Respond to Unsolicited Emails or Calls:
Legitimate mystery shopping companies rarely reach out to potential shoppers via unsolicited emails or phone calls. Be cautious if you receive an unexpected email or call offering you a mystery shopping opportunity. Instead, initiate the contact by reaching out to reputable companies directly through their official website or contact information.
Don't Pay Money to Apply for a Mystery Shopping Job:
Legitimate mystery shopping companies do not require applicants to pay money upfront to apply for a job. If a company asks for payment as part of the application process, it is likely a scam. Be skeptical of any upfront fees or requests for payment, as they are typically indicators of fraudulent activities.
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What to Do If You Spot a Mystery Shopping Scam
Report to the Better Business Bureau (BBB):
If you come across a mystery shopping scam, report it to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB is a non-profit organization that works to advance marketplace trust, and they track and investigate scams to protect consumers. By filing a complaint with the BBB, you can help raise awareness about the scam and potentially prevent others from falling victim to it.
Report to Your State Attorney General:
Reporting the scam to your state's Attorney General can help in combating mystery shopping scams within your jurisdiction. The Attorney General's office is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws, and they can take legal action against scammers if a pattern of fraudulent behavior is discovered. Providing detailed information about the scam can aid in their investigation.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the primary federal agency responsible for protecting consumers against unfair business practices and scams. By reporting a mystery shopping scam to the FTC, you contribute to their efforts in identifying and prosecuting scammers. The FTC maintains an online complaint database, making it easy to report scams and share your experience.
Report to the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA):
The Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA) is an industry association that promotes professional standards in the mystery shopping industry. If you encounter a mystery shopping scam, reporting it to the MSPA can help them address the issue within their network and take appropriate action against any member involved in fraudulent activities.
