Mystery Shop Scam

So who wouldn't be enticed with a program that tells you to shop for free? Mystery shopping has definitely taken cash strapped Americans by storm, but not all programs are really legit. Bargaineering.com has put a list of things you should watch for when signing up to be a Mystery Shopper.

Here are the Top 5 Signs your Mystery Shop is a Scam:

1.An application fee is a sure sign that your mystery shopping company is a fraud. What job would ask you to pay an application fee? The answer is none.

2.Requiring that you be certified, likely by them, is another sign that you’re being taken for a ride. Essentially anything that makes you pay out of pocket to join is a sign that you’re being scammed.

3.Selling access to a job list or company list also falls into the “pay out of pocket” category.

4.Asking for lots of personal information. If someone asks for your social security number, it’s likely a scam. The most they’ll ask is for your name and your address so they can mail you a check. Some will ask for a bank account to direct deposit funds but that will always be optional if they are legitimate. If they require that you give them a social security number or your bank account, it’s likely a scam.

5.They contact you because of a resume you posted on a job website. Legitimate mystery shoppers won’t contact you like this, only scammers will scour employment websites for marks.

For more red flags, read the article 12 Signs of a Fraudulent Mystery Shopping Company from Bargaineering.com