Victim Location 78640
Total money lost $1,500
Type of a scam Employment
Mystery Shopper Scam Description
I received a message from LinkedIn to apply for a job as a mystery shopper. I applied on 8/31/2019. I received an email same day that my application was approved and I would be receiving my first check and assignment soon. I received a USPS Priority Mail envelope on 9-7-19 with an IRERIA Bank check # 503643 in the amount of $1900.00 and an instruction letter for my first assignment. I was to deposit the check into my bank account and purchase $1500.00 worth of eBay ($1000) and Walmart ($500) gift cards from one of the listed stores. I had to report my experience at the store with clerk’s name and time at checkout and if there were any problems purchasing the gift cards. The remaining balance would be my compensation for the assignment. I immediately deposited the check into my bank account via ATM deposit.
The funds showed available. I went to Walmart & Target to purchase the required items the next day. I was then instructed to scratch off the backs of the cards and email a copy as well to [email protected] I followed the instructions and sent the pictures and reported my experience via email. The following day I received an email with a "good job” you are ready for your next assignment. I found out today 9-12-19 the check I received was return & bank charged me $12.00. Now I realized that I had been scammed.
Both Walmart and eBay gift cards have been cleaned out, I hope somehow if we can trace back what was bought, who bought it, and where it was delivered to. Unfortunately, I have not had any luck to get that information.