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How to Spot Survey Scams

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By supersleuth
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)

With so many paid survey “opportunities” on the Internet, the trick becomes distinguishing the legitimate opportunities from “opportunities” that are really just scams.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Stay away from ads on the Internet, television or newspaper. Legitimate companies do not need to advertise, word of mouth produces plenty of panelists for these companies. Also, never pay for any lists or programs. Legitimate companies do not charge you, they pay you.

  2. Step 2

    Keep in mind, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Use your thinking cap, instead of wondering, "Wow, I can make that much!?" ask yourself "Is it likely that these companies are paying hundreds of dollars for 20 minutes of answering questions?" In case you aren't sure, the answer is No.

  3. Step 3

    Read through the Terms of Service, User Agreement and any other fine print. Keep an eye out for are red flags such as the site’s ability to change the rules at any point for any reason, agreeing to receive email and offers from affiliates, the term “as-is,” and minimum participation or “offer” requirements. These are indications that the site may not be legitimate.

  4. Step 4

    If you do find a site you feel comfortable signing up with, pay attention to the first “survey” you get or are prompted to complete. If this survey contains yes/no answers and is filled with products and services asking which ones you are interested in, don’t bother wasting any more of your time on it. That is considered their survey, and your big prize? An inbox full of spam and offers from every single product and service you showed any interest in.

Tips & Warnings
  • Look for recommendations from sites that rate these types of programs. A great site to check out is 10xmore.com
  • Always double check your findings against a site that lists scams. An excellent one is surveypolice.com
  • NEVER pay to get paid.

Comments  

Flag This Comment

on 11/30/2009 Great article. Well written with plenty of information. Thanks 5* and a rec.

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eHow Article: How to Spot Survey Scams

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