Important
Security Notice:
We
have been made aware that third parties may be attempting to use the names and
logos of Pinecone Research "mystery shopping" assignments.
Essentially, the victim is provided a fake check and advised to cash it, and
then use some of the proceeds to test a service (for example, testing a Western
Union wire transfer). The victim is advised that he or she may retain the
balance from the cashed check as payment, however, the check later bounces.
Please
be aware that Pinecone Research has no involvement in these fraudulent
transactions. Participating in our surveys is always free of charge, and
we never ask our panelists to cash a check for a large amount and then use the
proceeds to “test” a service.
Concerned
individuals should report any information regarding these activities to local
law enforcement agencies, as well as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
"econsumer.gov" reporting system (https://econsumer.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/)
in the