Mystery Shopping Scams Target College Grads

The offers are attractive but sometimes deceptive

Nowadays finding your first gig as a new college grad is tough, which makes part-time or temporary work appealing until you’re hired in your field.

Getting paid to eat or shop as a mystery shopper is appealing for this group of entry-level workers. But now the Federal Trade Commission is warning that scammers are specifically targeting this group, as well.

Never fear. The FTC offers a few tips to steer away from the scam artists.

Don’t pay upfront fees to be a mystery shopper. Legitimate companies don’t charge people to work for them.

Never agree to deposit a check from someone you don’t know and then wire money back. The check will bounce, and you will owe your bank the money you withdrew.

If any of these red flags ring a bell, file a complaint with the FTC.
 

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