By Sarah Klein
A mystery shopper scam has Winnipeg police alerting the public to be vigilant in such deceptive or misleading solicitation for employment.
Police say the fraudulent offer involves a money transfer or wiring funds related to cashing monetary instruments or goods based on the promise of reviewing or shopping at a store.
“Typically the victim answers an enticing ad to become a mystery shopper. The “employer” then sends a letter, with mystery shopping tasks to be completed, and a cheque(s) are provided to help the victim fulfill his/her mystery shopping tasks,” police said in a release.
Upon cashing the cheques, the victim is asked to transfer a large portion of the money to a name provided using a wire service. When the cheque is returned as forged, the victim is held accountable to pay for the funds that he/she wired.
Police say if you are unsure of the legitimacy of a cheque, check with the issuing company, using a verified source for the phone number, and ensure the cheque clears before sending off funds.
For further information visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
