Just because the holiday season is over doesn’t mean scammers have gone away.

Beware of deals that are too good to be true. You can’t get a 2 week vacation in Aruba for $99.95. All they want is your personal information. Don’t click on a link.

If only phishing emails would include some facts. The following is a real email I received.

Hello,
I am Gregory Wheeler, (You can’t pronounce my real name, but doesn’t this one sound ‘all American’?) Recruitment Specialist with Sights On Service Inc. (We made up the title and company, but you’re still reading) “We have a mystery shopping assignment in your area and we would like you to participate”. (We are definitely not in your area and don’t care where you live)

We are a charter member of the Mystery Shopping Provider’s Association (MSPA) (The only mystery is who we actually are) There is no charge to apply to be a Secret Shopper® and information is protected. (The ‘registered’ mark gives us credibility and your info will be passed around like a joint at a Colorado pot convention)

Secret Shopper® is accepting applications for qualified individuals. (If you’re stupid, you qualify)  It’s fun and rewarding, and you choose when and where you want to shop. (Are visions of forays to Victoria’s Secret and Bloomingdales popping into your head yet?)

You are never obligated to accept an assignment and you do not need previous experience. (The only obligation is that you fall for this scheme)

After you sign up, you will have access to training materials via e-mail, fax or postal mail. (Training you how to shop? Are you getting it yet?)

Continual investment in the latest internet and communication technologies coupled with over 16 years of know-how means working with Secret Shopper® is a satisfying and rewarding experience. (We’re trying to stay one step ahead of the law)

Nearly 1,000 shoppers have registered this week, (We can’t believe there are that many idiots out there) performing millions of mystery shops.

Stores and organizations such as The Gap, Walmart, Pizza Hut and Bank One amongst many others pay for Secret Shoppers to shop in their establishments and report their experiences. (What a thrill to order at a Pizza Hut and then count the number of pepperoni on an average slice)

On top of being paid for shopping you are also allowed to keep purchases for free. (Wait a minute; I’m putting on my hip boots. The shit is getting really deep)

Secret Shopper® has available for immediate assignment an inspection of the customer service of any Walmart in your area. (OKAY, ‘customer service in Walmart’. If that doesn’t give you a clue, you’re hopeless.)

Kindly Fill Out the application form below and we will get back to you shortly with the assignment:

Name, address, SS#, Current bank, Types of accounts, access # to Paypal account, any other relevant financial information.