Victim Location 23455
Total money lost $3,000
Type of a scam Employment
Be smarter than me, don’t cash that check! I received a message on linked-in that appeared to be from an acquaintance telling me about a Target Rewards dinner shopper program. I followed the link and filed out the application. About a month later, I received a text message from 209208-8346 asking if I received a package. I confirmed receipt of a priority mail envelope with 2 cashiers checks and assignment but could complete assignment as I was on may way out of town. They were very accommodating and said I could do the work after I returned – which I did. Here is the scam: I was instructed to deposit a cashiers check of $1,967 to cover the mystery shopper assignment less $367 which represented my pay plus $20 for the part 1 purchase. (I was a LEGITIMATE mystery shopper some 20 years ago). I was to text and email confirmation of the deposit and my first purchase plus my report. The second step was to go back to the same establishment to purchase Ebay Gift Cards in $500,$200 & $100 denominations. If asked if you’re a secret shopper I was to say NO. If asked if I know recipients of the cards say YES. Also, I was offered a $200 bonus if completed within 72 hours. I have now done the homework I should have done better before starting on this adventure. (What kills me is that these folks have a legitimate internet site.) I have now spoken to Ebay and the local police. The way this scam works is multi-level. These folks are cashing the ebay cards while you are texting them the pictures. (They evidently make purchases and have them sent to others to convert into cash.) While I string along the "rep, Scott" who sent me more checks for another assignment, I have closed my bank account, spoken to the police, filed a report with the Internet Crimes division of the FBI ([email protected])… I so hope I am not on the hook for $3000!!!! Be smarter than I was, please!!!!