Mystery shopper scam.
(Service Intelligence) The scam is executed in this way: an individual receives a letter detailing potential mystery shopping work and containing a check usually in the amount of $2,500. The scam requests the recipient deposit the check, and then send a money gram to a specific address with the pretense that the shopper is evaluating the money gram service. The mystery shopper's compensation is stated to be the $200 difference between the check and the money gram. The letter and check appear valid and use the name and logo of a prominent mystery shopping firm. But, in actuality, the check is fraudulent, and when the check bounces, the victim who has already sent the money gram is left liable for the funds forwarded. Because the scam devises the whole process as a mystery shopping assignment and uses the brand names of prominent mystery shopping providers and prominent retail chains, many unsuspecting individuals have fallen for it.

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