I received a letter with a check for $3,820. The letter said I had been chosen from my participation with their affiliate 'Consumer Survey Specialist' to be a Mystery Shopper. At first I was excited, but I googled the company name (Metropark Consumer Research Group) and found the reports on ripoff report. Thankfully I didn't try to cash the check, because I can't afford the fees!

Like in another report, the letter is signed by Human Resources Manager Sandra J. Krista. I am given a number to call Patrick Murphy, my 'assignment coordinator,' but the number is different than others, mine was 1-514-746-2034.

The 514 area code is in Canada, as is the PO Box on the return address on the envelope. Like others, mine has French writing and Canadian postage. The address given on the letter is a PO box in Houston, but I'll bet its bogus. The fax number given is 1-800-799-5139.

On the check are the company names 'Little Man, Inc.' and TD Banknorth, NA' both in Vermont. They both exist but neither seems to be affiliated with the scam.

Also, upon close inspection of the acceptance form, the fine print is written in broken English and barely makes any sense. There are sentences with no periods and others with two, like this.. It also notes that taxes will not be deducted...hmmm-- wonder why?

Also, here is the Canadian return address on the envelope:

C.P. 1075
P.O. Box 2175
MTL QC H3N 1W7

Lauren
Washington, District of Columbia
U.S.A.