Market Research, Inc. Western Union Scam New York, New York

I found out that I was being laid off, like many others these days, and decided to sign up to be a secret shopper or mystery shopper to get some extra income.  I signed up on several sites, and of course, they had links to other sites, so I didn't really keep track of or remember who I signed up with.  About a week later, I recieved a check in the mail from Market Research, Inc for $1500!  All I had to do was do two mystery shop jobs for them using the funds from the check.

The letter said that I had 48 hours to complete the shop once the funds were available.  Of course, I was anxious and excited because I was getting paid $300, plus they wanted me to shop at Best Buy, K-Mart or Walmart, spend $250, and keep my purchases as additional compensation.  The other part of the job was to send a Western Union transfer for $875.  I deposited the check, and kept out the money for the Western Union Transfer.  I wanted to get started right away to prove I was a good resource.

I had to call a coordinator to get the name and location of the individual receiving the money.  They were very kind and helpful ... they must be for real!  I was given the name of Ruth Campbell in Kingston, Canada.  The next day, I went to the Western Union at my local grocery store and dutifully sent $875 to Ruth.  I paid great attention to all the details including the time I had to wait, the clutter on the counter, etc.  I sat down right there in the store and filled out the report.  Then I went shopping at Best Buy.  I was very careful to spend as close to $250 as possilbe.  I called and gave them the wire transfer number and was asked to scan and email all of the receipts.  It was done the next day.

Four days later, I received a notice from my bank that I was overdrawn.  The check for $1500 had been returned.  I feel sick!  I am normally very careful and thorough, but this time, the dollar signs blinded me.  Don't let this happen to you.  I am out $950 thanks to these scammers!  That evening when I got home, I had another offer from Premium Marketing Research with a check for $1993.    They want me to wire $1480.  I think I'll pass!