MS Marketing Research

Victim Location 20707

Type of a scam Fake Check/Money Order

I received a message on LinkedIn about the validity of M&S Market Researsch from a colleague. I applied as a mystery shopper, then after 2 weeks I was approached my email and text about my first assignment by field agent, Stevens Fernando PhD. The communication was very persistent. I received my assignment to go to a local Apple Store and purchase gift cards in the amounts of $1600, $1000, and $90. The letter included a check for $2997.90 covering the gift cards and my $300 compensation. I received 3 texts back to back insisting that I need to start my assignment. I became suspicious but went to my bank to deposit the check through

ATM and it was not accepted. I replied to the text regarding this issue and got no response. The texts were some what formal at first but then became informal with responses such as – ‘that’s cool’. I knew then this was a scam.