Scam Alert
UPDATED: Mystery shopper scam - don't become a money mule.
Beware of adverts in local newspapers asking if you wish to be a mystery shopper. We have received reports from around the country, including Horowhenua, Dunedin, Napier and Auckland. There are also reports of offers coming via email.
Reports are from people who have replied to these adverts, only to be asked to cash travellers cheques and then wire the funds - minus their commission - overseas, normally to an address given in London.
The reports suggest that the travellers cheques look quite genuine. However, most banks will be able to spot the counterfeit cheques due to physical security measures on the cheques.
If you have replied to this advert and have received travellers cheques, do NOT attempt to cash them, you may be committing an offence. It is also likely that you will get further emails from the scammers pressuring you to 'cash' the cheques. Don't respond or acknowledge these emails.
See the article in the Hawkes Bay Today about this scam.
The American Bankers Association has an information leaflet on Travellers Cheque fraud [PDF 1.9MB].
Remember to treat all job opportunities with caution and use your common sense. This is a Job/Employment type scam with elements of money laundering.
