Avoiding Paid Survey Scams
Are there any legitimate paid survey companies?
Though grossly outnumbered by fraudulent companies, reputable survey companies exist. They collect data for clients and compensate survey takers in some way. Thorough research is vital prior to signing on with any entity offering this arraignment. Some survey scams are transparent. Others are tricky in their pitch, making potential hires unaware they are being scammed.
Red flags are often abundant from fraudulent online survey companies
Any company requesting a form of payment for access to surveys is a scam. A prospective survey taker shouldn’t have to spend money to earn money. Though there are plenty of companies taking money from unassuming people, many of the illegitimate companies are interested solely in obtaining personal information. Personal information is gathered and sold. These companies often appear genuine at first glance, but do not pay out cash or rewards as promised. The sale of collected data is their only goal. In extreme cases, data collected is used to assist in identity theft.
Scammers have become craftier in their plight to seem real. Many ask users complete a lengthy survey with a promise of reward, cash or sweepstakes entry, only to end with a requirement for the user to participate in an offer from one of the company’s affiliates. In the end, they have personal information, a valid email address, and the opportunity to hock goods or services to those still believing in the validity of the original claims.
One need not go searching for a paid survey taking opportunity to be scammed. Often spammers send offers for surveys via email. An unsolicited offer to get paid money to take surveys shouldn’t be trusted.
Ensure that the online survey company chosen is truly legitimate
Any company without ill intent is going to be realistic about expectations for compensation. They will not offer riches for minimal work. Generally, a person cannot earn enough income from online surveys to make it a career. Legitimate companies that reward with coupons, gift cards or cash do so at a rate that equates to a low hourly wage. Taking online surveys is for those who delight in the experience of sharing opinions and enjoy the modest payout that comes with it.
A legitimate company will have contact information available and will not ask for a credit card number for account verification. The terms of service should be thoroughly read and understood before being agreed to.
It is difficult to do an online search for reviews on sites seemingly dedicated to identifying scammers, as many of these sites are scams. Some sites claiming to review survey sites are paid by scam operators to rate them well. Scam report message boards are a great source to read what real people have to say from trial and error. Trustworthy critiques are out there, and the time must be taken to seek them.
No news isn’t always good news
A common misconception is that zero reviews indicate no bad reviews. It is very likely that a company name attached to a scam is too new to have negative feedback online. Names are easily and often changed and recycled. Further, victims are often too embarrassed to speak out after being deceived. The Better Business Bureau may not have any registered complaints about any given company, but that isn’t proof they are safe.
Nobody is going to become wealthy from online surveys, even when working with the best in the industry. However, choosing poorly and falling victim to a scam can cause a lot of damage. Employing common sense and research methods should give prospects the tools needed to sift through all marketed opportunities, both good and bad.
To save time, take a look at our Australian surveys list for a listing of legitimate Australian online survey opportunities.
