Mystery shopping can be a great way to earn money. If done right, you can hundreds or thousands of dollars a month.

But there is a scam related to mystery shopping that could end up costing you thousands of dollars.

It comes in a few different forms, but the essence is always the same -- and it involves a large check or money order.

What usually happens is the fake mystery shopping company will ask you deposit the check into your bank, and wire a portion of the money through Western Union, and keep the remaining sum of money as a 'mystery shopping fee.'

If you sign up with a mystery shopping company, and then they send you a large check or money order, then be aware! These checks are always fake! If you deposit the check into your account and withdraw the money, you will be required to give the money back to the bank.

If you ever get a large check for just one assignment from a mystery shopping company, then immediately contact the authorities. It is likely the check is a fake, and if you deposit that money and then withdraw it, you will end up owing the bank the entire sum.

Most mystery shopping assignments pay less than $50. The average assignment pays closer to $15. So if you're getting a check thousands of dollars, then its a giant red flag. Tread carefully. A surprising number of people have been stolen from this way.

Keep in mind that no legitimate mystery shopping company will attempt this scam. However, con artists may pose as representatives from legitimate companies. So even if you've worked with a company before, still be wary if they send you a large check.

Fortunately, now that you know about this scam, it is very easy to avoid.

Happy Shopping!

MysteryShopCourse.com offers the most comprehensive & free mystery shopping guide available on the internet. Get the guide at: MysteryShopCourse.com

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