SCAM LIBRARY · MONEY & PAYMENT

The mystery-shopper scam

In this scam, someone promises you easy money to evaluate a store or restaurant, but then asks you to wire or transfer funds that you never get back.

Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-06

How it works

You'll receive an unsolicited message (email, text, or social media) offering quick cash for simple 'mystery shopping' work. The recruiter seems professional and legitimate, often sending official-looking paperwork. They'll ask you to make a small purchase or wire a deposit, promising a big reimbursement plus your fee—but the reimbursement never arrives, and the scammer disappears.

Red flags

• You're contacted out of the blue about a job you didn't apply for
• The job offers unusually quick, easy money for minimal work
• You're asked to wire money, use gift cards, or transfer funds upfront
• The 'employer' pressures you to act fast or says the offer is limited-time

What to do

• Do not send any money, even if promised a large reimbursement
• Verify any job offer directly by calling the actual company's official phone number (not a number provided in the message)
• Report the scam at reportfraud.ftc.gov