Consumer Alert: Investigative shopper scams target Kansans
June 08, 2009 --Attorney General Steve Six warns Kansans today of a new scam targeting consumers involving phony solicitations for employment as "secret shoppers," "mystery shoppers," or other types of investigative shoppers. The advertisements often claim to provide additional income for individuals seeking part-time employment.
Some Kansas consumers have responded to employment advertisements, others have received mailings stating they have been selected to participate in a paid Consumer Research Program in their area and still more have been contacted by e-mail after posting their resumes online.
When a consumer responds to the offer, they often receive a "cashier's check," usually ranging from $2,500 to $4,000. The job assignment is to cash the check, pose as a customer and wire the money, often to a foreign address. Because the check is fake, it bounces after the consumer has wired the money, leaving the consumer liable for the fake check.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office reminds consumers to be skeptical of any offer requesting them to wire money to a third party. The documents, including the cashier's checks, used by scam artist can look legitimate. Consumers should thoroughly research all offers they receive prior to wiring money.
If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at 1(800) 432-2310.
For tips on how avoid being scammed, visit: http://www.ksag.org/.