FTC charges ‘mystery shopper’ operation

The Federal Trade Commission filed deceptive practices and contempt charges against individuals and firms running a “mystery shopping” operation.

In “Mystery Shop Link” advertisements, consumers were told that if they paid $99.95 for training and certification, they could access ample job postings through the company and earn a steady income.

The complaint alleges that the certifications were worthless and that people gained access to repostings of mystery shopping assignments posted by unrelated companies.

The FTC’s complaint named Mystery Shop Link and Tangent Group, both of Portland, Maine, but with business operations in Ventura, as well as individuals employed by those companies. Florida-based telemarketing firm Harp Marketing Services Inc. and two of its executives also were charged.