Learn Job & mystery shopper
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Job, work-from-home and mystery-shopper scams
An easy job offer, often as a mystery shopper, sends you a check to deposit and asks you to send part of the money back or buy gift cards.
What it often looks like
"Earn $400 a week as a mystery shopper. We'll send you a check to get started."
"Deposit this check, keep your pay, and send the rest by gift card or payment app."
Red flags
- A job you didn't apply for, or one hired by text or chat with no real interview
The rest of this lesson comes free with an account
The full lesson includes:
- How the scam works, step by step (3 points)
- 4 more red flags
- What to do instead (3 habits)
- The one line to remember
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If you already clicked, paid or shared something
It happens to careful, smart people. Acting quickly helps most. (This part of every lesson is free for everyone.)
- Stop sending money. Tell your bank right away that the check may be fake.
- If you bought gift cards, contact the gift card company immediately with the card numbers and receipts.
Check or report
AARP's free Fraud Watch Network Helpline (877-908-3360) will also talk you through what to do, whether or not you're a member.