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While most mystery shopping companies have solid reputations, there are a few that don’t. The mystery shopping industry has skyrocketed with the consumer demand constantly on the rise; there are over 400 mystery shopper companies within the US alone. The best mystery shopping companies will have the customer’s interests at the top of mind and will ensure that there mystery shopper experiences provide true value. Over the past few years, the amount of mystery shopper companies has grown over 11% per year, making this industry sector a $600 million per year business.

While it may seem self explanatory of what factors you would want to take into consideration when choosing mystery shopper companies to partner with, we wanted to outline a few specific details to help you to make your selection. Unfortunately, just like in almost every business type today, there are a few bad businesses that make the rest of the industry look bad. So, when you are looking for mystery shopper companies to partner with, keep this in mind.

Of all known issues that relate to mystery shopper companies, fraud with bad checks or other payment means is by far the most serious and prevalent. In this case, consumers are being sent letters or finding classified advertisements that promise a way of earning quick cash or gifts by performing mystery shops and/or service evaluations. One scheme in particular involves so-called mystery shopper companies, asking shoppers to cash checks, followed by wiring the money back to a certain address, most often to a foreign country.

For handling, the shopper is told he/she would keep a percentage of the check. However, once the check is cashed, the shopper is advised within a few days by the bank that it bounced, leaving him/her with serious financial issues that could be as much as $5,000! One company, GFK Custom Research, explains through their North America’s marketing communication department that they are taking this personal, working to get the word out about this horrific crime. GFK is among a list of top mystery shopper companies and they do not want their reputation smeared.

If you are looking for one of the best mystery shopper companies then MSPA is one that you should contact. They aim to give businesses exactly what they need in order to improve and they are also constantly exposing various different fraudulent schemes.

In fact, MSPA give out tips to mystery shoppers to help them to avoid getting involved with fraudulent companies. They tell you to never pay a fee to join a company. Usually mystery shopper companies hire their shoppers for free. Also you should stay clear of companies who tell you that they will pay through money transfer or check cashing. If you follow those tips you should successfully avoid fraudulent companies.