Retail Research Services nearly stole $2890.00 from me in Secret Shopper/MoneyGram scam Columbus Ohio

I received a letter including a CSEF-Customer Service Evaluation Form and a check for $3500 made out to me. The letter claimed I had the opportunity to become a secret shopper once passing their initial evaluation assignments.

1. Shop at K-Mart, Macy's, JC Penney or Wal-Mart purchasing $100 in goods. Complete the eval and send with copy of reciept.
2. Send a MoneyGram to one of three names in the amount of $2980.00. Complete the eval and fax.

I called the number on the letter and spoke with Maggie. My first tip off was her claim when I asked about taxes 'oh, honey this is all under the table'
I was to keep all remaining money - $300

I did deposit the check to see what would happen. Initially, it looked good having shown up positive in my balance. However, two days later the bank called to let me know it bounced. This cost me $5 and some embarrassment.

Thankfully, I did not do the moneygram assignment. I don't know where I would have come up with that amount of money.

Bewildered
Easthampton, Massachusetts
U.S.A.