Market Research Scams

In the past, we’ve done whatever is necessary to alert our members and the general public about scams and unethical business practices of companies claiming to offer market research surveys. We’ve all seen the ads: “Earn $25 - $75 for each Survey You Take!” This is simply false advertising. Just like many other false claims and promises, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. MySurvey.com is a great way to share your opinions with companies about the products and services they offer -- you may pick up some extra cash, but keep in mind you won’t be able to earn a living wage from it.

I have recently learned of a mystery shopping scam that, unfortunately, involves the parent company of MySurvey.com, TNS. In this particular scam, consumers are receiving a letter on fake “TNS” letterhead offering them the opportunity to make “easy money” by cashing a large-sum cashier’s check. The letter then asks the recipient to participate in a “quality assurance” study at Money Gram by wiring $800.00 to a specified address in Canada. The “reward” for participating in this study is keeping a percentage of the cashier’s check for $980.00 from Sterling Bank that is enclosed with the letter. The cashier’s check is bogus and it will bounce several days after cashing it. The participant is then out of the money they wired for this so-called mystery shopping project.

If you encounter this scam or receive this fake project request, please notify me immediately so that TNS can investigate further. Visit the Mystery Shopping Providers Association website (the largest mystery shopping trade association) for more information about the scam and recommended steps to follow if you have been victimized: http://www.mysteryshop.org/news/article_pr.php?art_ID=73

Here's an online resource to help you detect scams and protect yourself:
http://www.scambusters.org/scamcheck.html

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