Avoiding Paid Survey Scams

During my Internet strolling a while back I came across a survey-advertising site. Apparently they were looking for persons to join and be paid for filling out surveys. Although I was quite skeptical, as I usually am about these things I decided to explore the site and find out just how legit this thing was.

One of the first instructions given to its followers was to read thoroughly over a small contract and authorize compliance by submitting an online signature. That was the least of my worries. The next instruction given was to purchase a "work packet." Inside of this work packet was supposed to be a list of detailed notes for beginning survey takers. The packet cost a onetime and non-refundable amount of $7.95. After weighing my options and coming to the realization of not losing much in $7.95, I decided to give it a shot. I took a shot alright. Very soon I would be out of that precious $7.95.

Payments were only acceptable through the use of PayPal and afterwards the work packet would be available in Microsoft Word format. So I downloaded the program in its entirety and took 20 to 25 minutes to briefly review the material. After reviewing the scam, I came to the understanding that I was jived from damn near 8 bucks! In truth, there wasn't a work packet with detailed instructions. The only instruction given was how to make my money back by cheating some other poor sap. I did my best to contact the seller but obviously he wasn't interested in conversing with me after I gave away my money. It was a definite scam. I vowed to myself; never again.

How the Scam Works.

You are required to authorize a signature and a non-refundable transfer via PayPal in order to receive "materials" to conduct your survey takings. Some scam artists may charge more, some charge less - bottom line, you pay. After your money is submitted you have the option of downloading a set of instructions that teaches you how to cheat another person the same way you've been cheated.

The scam is a ongoing process online, similar to a chain letter. The more people you can fool into paying for the material, the more money you make. But of course there is no material; just information about how to scam the next newcomer and more if you choose. The amount of money a person can make is dependent upon how much they charge each individual.

Be very cautious about ads and online gigs that require signature or money from you up front. These survey taking advertisements are a matter of luring in potential persons who don't know any better; preferably folks who aren't very keen of the dishonesty there is online.