Secret mystery shopper scam is no secret anymore

Do you love to shop? If so, you may be tempted by unsolicited e-mails, notices on bulletin boards or newspaper classified ads that claim you can earn extra income as a secret or mystery shopper. Who can blame anyone for not wanting to dine at elegant restaurants, shop at pricey stores or stay at luxurious hotels. However, the Better Business Bureau is advising a healthy dose of skepticism about big promises of lucrative salaries.

Mystery shopping is a part-time activity, at best. Legitimate secret shopper opportunities are often posted online by marketing research or merchandising companies. Becoming a legitimate mystery shopper for a legitimate company doesn't cost anything, but it’s unlikely you’ll get rich overnight.  Reputable firms will qualify and train mystery shoppers to perform specific evaluations and will not charge a fee to complete an employment application.

On the other hand, fraudulent mystery shopping promoters also will use spam e-mails, as well as newspaper ads, to create the impression of guaranteed dollars. What’s worst is when consumers are required to “register” to become a mystery shopper – only after paying a fee for information about a certification program or a directory of mystery shopping companies.

Practically speaking, any “shopping certification certificate” is worthless and any list of legitimate mystery shopper jobs is probably available on the Internet for free. If you pay a fee and try to get a refund, you’re likely out of luck. Either your phone call isn’t returned, or if it is, then the purpose of the call will be to pitch another scam.

Don’t fall for mystery shoppers ads in a newspaper's “help wanted” section or fliers on a windshield. The advertisements may claim: “You will get PAID and receive FREE meals, products and services from big name, recognized companies for your opinion because we need Professional Business Evaluators!” While it might appear that these companies are legitimate, it's likely they're trying to sell you something, perhaps either a directory of companies that might hire mystery shoppers or a “certificate in shopping.” If someone guarantees you a job in exchange for your money, then walk away immediately from the scam artist. Never pay money up-front. A legitimate mystery shopping service will not charge money for materials, training or recruiting.

For additional consumer protection information, visit www.bbb.org or contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB) by phoning (858) 637-6199 during regular business hours. Or, call the BBB's 24-hour Consumer Helpline at (858) 496-2131 or 1-800-600-7050 to obtain free information on local companies along with a list of BBB accredited businesses in a particular type of industry.