Important Scam Alert

How the Scam Works

There are individuals misusing our name and trademarked logo in a scam involving “mystery shopping opportunities” that require you to cash a check.

These individuals provide bad checks, asking you to deposit them into your bank account and transfer a portion back to them as part of a mystery shop. When the check bounces, you are left responsible for the amount of the bounced check.

What You Should Know

• Vital Food Network has reported these incidents to local, state, and federal law enforcement.
• If you suspect someone is misrepresenting Vital Food Network, contact us at info@vitafd.org.

Vital Food Network Will Never:

• Ask you to transfer funds as part of a mystery shopping assignment.
• Send you a letter via mail claiming you were selected for a paid consumer research program.
• Request an in-person meeting with a representative for an assignment.
• Require payment for on-site training to become a mystery shopper.
• Contact you via email from any address other than one ending in @vitafd.org

Remember: Never pay to apply to become a mystery shopper. Legitimate mystery shopping providers will not charge you to apply or join their workforce.

For additional questions, please email us at info@vitafd.org.