Mystery shopper scams trick individuals into believing they have been hired to evaluate a store’s customer service. Scammers often send fraudulent checks, asking victims to deposit them and wire a portion back, only for the check to bounce later.

Example of a Scam:
A victim receives a $2,000 check to evaluate a store. They deposit it and send $1,500 via wire transfer. Days later, the check bounces, and the victim loses the money.

How This Can Happen:
Scammers contact victims via email, social media, or job listings, offering fake mystery shopping jobs. They send counterfeit checks and request victims to buy gift cards or transfer money, leaving them with financial losses.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Research companies before accepting offers.
• Never deposit checks from unknown sources.
• Avoid jobs requiring upfront payments or money transfers.
• Use official mystery shopping networks like MSPA.