Here are a few preventative measures you can take as a shopper to prevent falling victim to scams:

Do your homework - investigate! Do a Google Search on ANY company that you consider working for as an Independent Contractor. If you have questions about the legitimacy of a job listing, contact your Better Business Bureau, your state or local consumer agency, or the Federal Trade Commission.

Rely on the voice of experience! There are many seasoned shoppers in the business. Consult with these shoppers via shopper forums like Volition (volition.com), the MPSA site (mysteryshop.org) and other well known shopper forums. These provide valuable feedback regarding scams and shady shopping situations.

Remember that anyone can place a newspaper or online ad. Don't pay a company to hire you. Remember, if the process involves your sending your "employers" money, it's probably a scam. Be leery when asked for any money. There is a ground swell and raging debate over shoppers using pay to shop sites. Remember - YOU DON'T HAVE TO PAY TO MYSTERY SHOP! There is no need for a person to EVER have to spend a dime if they want to shop, it can all be done for free. There are hundreds of free company sites and free jobs available.

Do not EVER cash a check and send money to ANYONE! Do not wire money to strangers or to firms that say they have hired you. Do not use Western Union and Money Gram if you don't know the person who will be receiving your cash very well. Remember a charge against a credit card can be disputed and a check can have a stop payment order issued against it, but once cash is sent, it is gone forever. If the offer usually looks way too good to be true, it usually is.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Many of the new scams have begun to involve the unofficial use of long standing, reputable companies names and even the name of the MSPA. Others choose impressive sounding names. If you receive an offer that is suspect, even from a company for whom you have worked before, don't be shy about verifying that the evaluation is legitimate. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Safeguard your personal information, including your social security number. While it is true, in most cases, a company will need this information before they will pay you, it is okay for you to ask good questions and verify that you are not exposing yourself to fraud. Make sure the site is secure.