Now Circulating: ‘Mystery Shopper’ Scam Ahead of Holidays

It wouldn't be a complete week without another suspicious scam warning, just another thing to be mindful of ahead of the holidays.

This one may be a bit trickier, though, especially if you're someone looking for an outlet to make a little extra cash this season.

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Banks Warn of Mystery Shopper Scams

Just when we think we're up to date on the many scams that are currently circulating, here's one that might catch people off guard. With many people seeking opportunities to add a little extra padding to their bank accounts in order to make it through the holidays, it's important to watch for something called a mystery shopper scam.

Scammers have been advertising mystery shopper opportunities on job posting boards, social media sites, and have even reached out to potential victims directly by phone, email, text, even paper mailers.

These gigs, often associated with a fake company name, or a scammer impersonating a well-known company or firm, will try to get you to commit, and then ask for payment up front for training or certification, even money to access the list of shop-for-pay opportunities.

READ MORE: Gift Card Scam Hits New York Shoppers

What To Look Out For

In order to avoid getting scammed into a mystery shopper scheme, check the official business website to see if they actually use secret shoppers. It's also important to never wire, transfer, or send money as part of any mystery shopper assignment, or deposit checks into your own bank account and send money back. A legitimate and honest company would never charge YOU to work for them, either.

Below are some tips to avoid recent AI scams: