Scam Busters: The Mystery Shopping Trap | News | Money/Investing | Mainstreet

In the article Scam Busters: The Mystery Shopping Trap News Money/Investing Mainstreet, they are talking about how the hard economic times have increased the number of people becoming victims of the Secret Shopper/Mystery Shopper Scams and other work at home offers.

Some of their suggestions include


Avoid "Keep the Change" Payment Plans - Be suspicious of any scheme where you are sent a check or money order for more than the amount you would be owed for your work.

Call Companies Directly to Verify their Checks - Use directory assistance to get a phone number independent of what number you've been sent by your new "employer." Call the company directly to verify the check.

Don't Respond to Pressure to Act Now - Some banks take 10 days, or more, to determine if a check is legit. Even if your bank lets you make a withdrawal sooner, wait until your bank assures you that a check has cleared.

Do a Name Check - The contact names from your new opportunity should match up. Mismatched names or other typos or unprofessional communications should be a red flag.

If You Get Taken, Report the Scam - The Internet Crime Complaint Center and the U.S. Postal Inspections Service are two good places to start.