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Did you get an offer to be a secret shopper for a well-known company? It might come as text, email, or letter inviting you to work on a ‘research project starting soon in your area.’ Several people who got offers to be secret shoppers for grocery stores, like Whole Foods, thought they were scams, and wrote to the FTC to warn others. They were right — the offers are scams — and now we’re extending the warning.

People spotted signs of a fake check scam in the bogus Whole Foods secret shopper offer (which was from a scammer, not really Whole Foods). That’s when someone sends you a check and convinces you to deposit it and quickly send them money. In this scam, the recruiter would send shoppers a check for more than $2,000 and they would:

  • Cash or deposit the check immediately
  • Buy gift cards with most of the money
  • Keep about $450 as their pay
  • Scratch the coating off the gift cards to show the PIN codes
  • Send pictures of the cards’ front and back (with the codes) to the recruiter

If anyone ever tells you to deposit a check, withdraw money, and send it to someone, that’s a scam. When the check later turns out to be fake, the bank will want the money back. And if anyone tells you to go buy gift cards and share the PIN numbers, that’s a scam, too. Once the scammer has the PIN, they also have all the money from the cards.

So, if you get an offer like this, don’t respond. Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you already cashed a fake check and sent money to a scammer, find out how to report to gift card, wire transfer and money order businesses. Read more in How to Spot, Avoid and Report Fake Check Scams.

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The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
  • We won’t post comments that include vulgar messages, personal attacks by name, or offensive terms that target specific people or groups.
  • We won’t post threats, defamatory statements, or suggestions or encouragement of illegal activity.
  • We won’t post comments that include personal information, like Social Security numbers, account numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. To file a detailed report about a scam, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Pamchs
July 14, 2020
I received a check $2000+ for working for Whole Food Inc...! I AM SURE IT IS FAKE!!!
Love Gus
August 10, 2020
I received a check for $2,950.52. I was to purchase the nike gift cards and my sons believed it to be a scam. So I looked it up. Thank you for uncovering this.
BR11
August 12, 2020
Apparently the scammer is sending these checks out using my address as the return address. I keep getting these envelopes because they are marked “return to sender” and come to me but I didn’t send them!
Disappointed in KY
August 24, 2020
This morning I received a text message from 346-348-5800 regarding an upcoming project with Whole Foods, be warned. Looks like they are at it again.
gak
August 26, 2020
I received a priority envelope with a cashiers check for $1650.50 and instructions to deposit into my account. As a “secret shopper “ I then should purchase $1200.00 of gift cards and send them photos of the front and back of the cards. Must keep the cards for future shopping assignment. My son in law informed me it was a scam thank goodness. He was aware of this from his banking experience.
smarterthanyouthink
August 26, 2020
I thought I had seen it all, but when I got an inviatation to be a secret shopper for WalMart it looked pretty real, so I answered. A couple days later I got an envelope with a check for $2400 and instructions to deposit and go get gift cards. I took a photo of the check and sent it to the bank to deposit and they put a two-week hold on it. Thankfully I checked it out before any funds drawn against it and I reported the fraud to the bank and the FTC.
Susan
August 27, 2020
I just received a text stating that WalMart was starting a secret shopper research project with a link where I can sign up. I'm working to block the number.
Jmtaul
September 04, 2020
I got this today. The problem is this scam keeps happening because it works, unfortunately. WHOLE FOOD ® is starting an exceptionally huge research project in your general vicinity. This project happens each week, so we need to choose Shoppers to work as a store evaluator. You will get $350 on each endeavor. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: www. 123 formbuilder. Chris Ashley -(Manager) Whole Food Survey
cewear
September 04, 2020
I replied to a text about this "job offer", a few weeks ago. I didnt click on the link they sent me, but i copy and pasted it to my browser- i thought i was fooling them! I received my fraudulent cashiers check today, post dated for next week and called that bank immediately. I reported it to the FTC. These people sent me an email and a text stating that they sent me my stipend, to use and such. These people are horrid and take advantage of regular people. I went through the whole process- replying to texts and sending in my email address, home address and they already had my number. They will send a PDF to your email with exact instructions, on how to purchase the gift cards, send them the info on them and lay it out exactly how you are supposed to execute. I fell for it, but was cautioned when i saw the check. Someone that isnt as cautioned as i am, may fall for it.
georgesuematsu
September 11, 2020
From 715-733-0433 Whole Foods Market ® is beginning an exceptionally huge research project in your area. This project happens each week, so we have to select Shoppers to function as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on every task. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports if you have filled our form before do not refill again. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: wholefoodssurveyinc . /wholefoods Uh Respects- Survey Project Referral - Global Operations
Neil
September 05, 2020
I did get one of these, and it looks very legit. Fortunately, I didn't deposit the check. But should I sent this to the FTC?
Travbutg
September 06, 2020
Same thing - they sent me the check and it is a fraud. Can I report this somewhere - happy to send the package to FTC
Jaxgal428
September 24, 2020
This totally saved me. I received this "scam" in the mail and got excited until I decided to do some research, as I know most things that sound to good to be true are, and GLAD I did. I hope somehow the person/people who are doing this is caught and punished. Just reported my complaint to include the info I had.
Catchthesescammers
September 29, 2020
received a text from someone claiming to be michael henry Human Resources manager - global operations at whole foods market and a link to fill out a survey to become a secret shopper. number is 3462667178
John
September 29, 2020
Hey there. I fell for this unfortunately but not all the way. I began the application and when the person responded back that’s when I became uncertain and stumbled upon this. However they guy has my main email, phone number, home address and my name. Am I in trouble or will none of that matter?
Las vegas705
October 08, 2020
Walmart is starting an exceptionally huge research project in your general vicinity. This project happens each week, so we need to choose Shoppers to work as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on each endeavor. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: cutt.ly/wfX z0 KM David Clinton -(Manager)14434775409
Ohio girl
November 21, 2020

In reply to by Las vegas705

I received this exact text also!
Person who rec…
March 02, 2021

In reply to by Las vegas705

I got the same exact text!! It's from 15074619044
Disappointed
November 20, 2020
I assume this is a scam. Received this text: The current COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on the economy and the way we do business. We have taken certain steps to ensure that we are able to provide you with full support and service as we all wait for the pandemic to turn around. Whole Foods Market® is beginning an exceptionally huge research project in your area. This project happens each week, so we have to select Shoppers to function as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on every task. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: bit.ly/ 2We93S0 Human Resources Manager - Global Operations Christopher Michael.
Tallahassee FL
October 27, 2020
Just received this scam text so it’s still circulating
sgallegos54
November 03, 2020
I received one of these texts Friday. I felt something wasnt right. I started asking a lot of question that they couldnt answer. I received a $4600 check via Fed-EX today, I was to go to my bank, right away, to cash the check then I was to go to each of the Wal-Marts in my area and get 2 $500 gift cards from each store. I was to keep $600 my self. My gut told me it was scam. So I texted the gentleman, supposedly he is in the Sacramento area but the envelop came from NJ, I told him to delete my number and that I was going to report him to the Federal Trade Commission. Thank goodness I listened to my inner voice and came to this website. How do I find out if it is/was a scam?
Avrilleen
November 19, 2020
Just received this from... +1 (646) 895-3487 Walmart is starting an exceptionally huge research project in your general vicinity. This project happens each week, so we need to choose Shoppers to work as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on each endeavor. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: /cutt.l y/ ngYm BUg David Clinton -(Manager)
SweenX
November 10, 2020
BEWARE I just received a text “Whole Food Survey” ...exceptionally huge research project...earn $350. I’m glad I checked it out as it is a scam!
Shay
November 18, 2020
Received a text from Whole Foods about being an undercover shopper. They sent me a $985 check and told me to keep $285 of it. The $700 was to buy Nike gift cards and assess the people who sell them. I was then to send them the Nike gift card codes after scratching them off. They said if I completed the assessment in 6-12 hours I would receive a $200 bonus. I’m glad I found this page cause now I know I can take it to my bank and show them the fake check.
JusticeHonorCourage
November 19, 2020
Received text message from 346-337-3456 Supplement your income as Whole Foods Market Research Inc are presently in your area to inspect stores now. This program takes 20 to 30 minutes of your time weekly and you earn $400.00 Per Assignment. Company caters for all expenses for the assignments and it will cost you nothing. Hit the link below to register. /wholefoodsllc. wixsite. Regards, Ben Williams Director( Human Resources & STAFFING ).
mj2020
November 20, 2020
Just received a text wanting a secret shopper for whole foods. But says it pays $400 per shopping experience and pays up to $3000/month. The bottom of the text says from 123 formbuilder.com
Jeri K
November 27, 2020
Received the text today November 27, 2020, St. Louis, MO
Nik
December 03, 2020
This just happened to me but I responded to the job add so long ago that I forgot about it. So a check came with no instructions and it looked like a check I was expecting from a wreck I had so I deposited it since it came priority mail by UPS and it was in my name. I was contacted by the fake Whole Foods Company by text saying that they were going to seek legal action because they sent me a survey payment and I hadn’t responded. The check didn’t clear anyways and when I found out they sent me the check I cursed them out big time. What the heck is wrong with people. I mean why would they think a check under a fake account would clear anyways. Had I gotten the instructions with the check I would’ve known right off or was a scam. I still Have the fake check. Keeping it in case this comes back up. Hope they get caught!
msmiss
December 04, 2020
totally got scammed....tried to come off as legitimate employment, which is ironic as I have been looking for work...
lpowell1253
December 08, 2020
I received a check in the amount of $2,950 from Whole Foods Secret Shopper. They advised me to Cash or deposit the check immediately, buy Nike gift cards with $2500 (5 x $500 Nike Gift Cards) Keep $450 as their pay Scratch the coating off the gift cards to show the PIN codes Send pictures of the cards’ front and back (with the codes) to the recruiter named Chris Ashley. I sent a text message back letting them know that I am aware of their SCAM and I refuse to mess up my kids Christmas to benefit their SCAM. Reading these people request cannot sound real. Unfortunately, they get a lot of people and it is sad.
Cjschmitt
December 09, 2020
I took mine to midfirst bank to my banker to let him have his fraud unit investigate. So glad I did.
dlpate2210
December 18, 2020
I just received the following text from a 281-area code: “Whole Foods Market ® is beginning an exceptionally huge research project in your area. This project happens each week, so we have to select Shoppers to function as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on every task. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports if you have filled our form before do not refill again. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: form. 123formbuilder. Respects- Human Resources Manager - Global Operations Michael Henry.”
Pocahantas
December 15, 2020
This scam is getting craftier. They are using government emails to lure you into thinking it is a real part time opportunity. They tried to send a fedex package as an orientation and then sent a "job assignment " within days. I am already a certified secret shopper and knew right away this was bogus. But foolishly I trusted the initial email and followed a link to what seemed to be a real application page. As soon as I got knew it was a scam I called the number that kept texting me and I threaten to turn them in to the FBI. The website is gone now. Please be careful everyone.
Wmp
December 24, 2020
I got the Whole Foods text with link yesterday, 12/23/2020. Did my research discovering it’s a scam; didn’t click on the link & deleted the text.
American girl
December 29, 2020
I just recieved a cashier's check from savvy chic being at secret shopper in the amount of 2,850.50. Should I just RIP it up and throw it away?
Don't use your…
January 05, 2021
I received a text message regarding secret shopping for Whole Foods. I suspected it was a scam and found this website. These crooks need to be prosecuted for scamming folks.
Don't use jlsy…
February 02, 2021
I received a text message today from Whole Foods offering secret shopper position
oa-AP
February 03, 2021
Received the Whole food secret shopper scam by phone text message. I deleted message and phone number before thinking to contact FTC. Basically said they was looking for secret shoppers in my area (Louisiana)which paid $450.00/task and I was to contact them through a certain web site. Sorry I deleted contact information (2/3/2021)
Candies135
February 04, 2021
Sum one just try too text me the exact same thing where you're mentioning in this letter they text my phone from a number I have in my phone asking me to be some survey Shopper and all these cement
Love to be a s…
February 09, 2021
I’m always getting these Texts.... fell for it once but went to bank to see if check was good..... Banker called the bank where check was drawn and discovered the check was stolen. .... what a scam!!! Be careful...
cmgg
February 10, 2021
Literally gave them my billing address and they sent me a check I’m so glad I looked into it before getting scammed
NoScammers
February 11, 2021
Did anyone get this text/email after applying for jobs on Linkedin/indeed?
Icehockey
February 25, 2021
Yes i got one those checks sd well. Telling me to deposit itand buy gift cards and send them they wanted 4 500$ gift cards and then my pay for doing this task. Was 500$ new it was a scam when i couldnt find the people online and the wanted pictures of the cards
Person who rec…
March 02, 2021
These are the exact words I got in a Walmart scam: "Walmart is starting an exceptionally huge research project in your general vicinity. This project happens each week, so we need to choose Shoppers to work as a store evaluator. You will get $400 on each endeavor. Every task requires 20-30 minutes of time at the store in addition to time to review your post-visit reports. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION: David Clinton -" Yeah I'm not following through with that, thank you so much for this article! Not sure if I should send the link they sent me or not because I don't want anyone else clicking on it.
BCR
March 07, 2021
Oh my I filled out the form because I once was an actual secret shopper in the 80’s thinking it was a revived list for whole Foods Seeking qualified shoppers again
Sanct1ty
March 09, 2021
I just got a secret shopper text last night asking me to fill out a google form asking for my address and a bunch of stuff. They are claiming to be Whole Foods.
Sunshine
March 11, 2021
I just received a check and my “first assignment” today. I’ll be reporting this ASAP
Mhitchcock
April 09, 2021
Glad I Google searched, Just received an evaluation in the mail for BestBuy and was provided a $3,400.00 check. I have deposited the check but thought twice about researching the validity of the situation. Very happy I did.
alevy
April 13, 2021

In reply to by Mhitchcock

Same thing here... so glad I looked into it.
Joey1Lucky2Don…
April 17, 2021
Yeap just got all my fake stuff in the mail. Sad thing though is I fell for the Red Bull car wrap scam lost 3000$. I am so sad, mad ,like I really want something done about it and I want my $3000 back. I would like to take my bank to court for letting their check to clear. How does this happen even after they put a hold on the check. I am so upset.