Shopper Resource

SCAMS & SAFE SHOPPING

How to recognize and avoid mystery shopping scams

As a reputable mystery shopping operator, we have observed an upsurge in the number of scammers seeking to obtain your money or personal information.

See below for advice on how to stay safe and further details on current scams.

Common Scams

🎁 Gift Cards

These scams usually ask you to buy gift cards at Amazon, eBay, grocery stores, etc. The scammers then ask you to send images of the back of the cards with the PIN visible.

🏦 Checks

These scams involve mailing you a check. You are asked to deposit it and wire the proceeds back to the “mystery shopping company.” Days later your bank notifies you the check did not clear.

💸 Money Transfer

These scams ask you to wire money to a “client” to test their customer service.

We do not have any programs involving gift cards, checks, or money transfers.

How To Avoid Scams

Pay Close Attention To The Details

  • Scammers have appropriated our logo and sent emails from domains very similar to ours, but with subtle differences like extra letters.
  • Scammers have sent communication using names similar to but not actually Sentry team members.
  • Sentry only sends emails from @sentrymarketing.com and @sentryinsights.com domains.
  • Be wary of emails from free email services like Yahoo, Hotmail, Live, or similar providers.

If It Sounds Too Good To Be True…

Be suspicious of the following:

  • If you are mailed a check before completing any work.
  • If you are asked to deposit a check and wire a portion of the proceeds.
  • If you are asked to purchase gift cards and send an image of the gift card number with the PIN revealed.

See Something, Say Something

  • Report suspected fraud to us immediately by emailing fraud@sentryinsights.com
  • Contact the Federal Trade Commission
  • Contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center
  • Contact the FBI

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