We can’t help it — we love sharing our opinions. No matter the topic, we’ve usually got a hot take.
But can you really make money just by speaking your mind?
Hold that thought.
Bad actors are looking for new ways to get access to your information.Kimberly Reece, Customer Advocacy Manager for the Financial Crimes Unit at Regions
What are Fake Survey Scams?
While there are legitimate online surveys, the Better Business Bureau warns of a growing rise in fake survey scams. These scams typically promise compensation through cash, gift cards or merchandise. But their real purpose is to phish for your personal information.
“Bad actors are looking for new ways to get access to your information,” said Kimberly Reece, Customer Advocacy Manager for the Financial Crimes Unit at Regions. “By alerting our customers and the public of these threats, we hope to reduce the impact of scams and keep you safe.”
How do Fake Survey Scams Work?
Most fake surveys follow a three‑step playbook.
- The bait: You see a social media ad offering cash or gifts for completing a quick survey.
- The redirect: Clicking the link sends you through multiple websites before landing on the survey page.
- The hook: After finishing, you’re told you’ve earned a “reward.” To claim it, just proceed to checkout.
That’s where they ask for credit or debit card information — usually for a “small shipping fee.” Your bank may catch the fraud attempt and block the charge, but by then the scammers already have your personal and financial information.
And, of course, your “reward” never arrives.
BBB’s Signs of a Fake Survey Scam
- Too-good-to-be-true rewards. A $100 gift card or 90 percent discount for answering three questions is almost certainly a scam.
- Overemphasis on the reward. Legitimate surveys gather customer feedback. Incentives may be small, but they’re not the main focus.
- Mismatched questions or gifts. If a “grocery store survey” offers free clothing or jewelry, that’s a red flag. Scammers often mix brands, images and language from multiple companies.
- Limited-time pressure. Scammers try to rush you before you can think. “Free gift while supplies last” is a common hook.
- No clear source. Real surveys clearly state the company behind them, the information being collected and how it will be used.
- Typos, odd grammar or incorrect logos. Poor wording and off-brand logos are common giveaways — though scammers continue to improve their impersonations.
- Suspicious URLs. Hover over links to see their actual destination. Make sure they direct to the company’s legitimate domain, not a look‑alike.
Be Cautious
“Regions is committed to fraud education,” Reece said. “So many scams are easily preventable if you know what to expect.”
If you believe you’ve been targeted or may have shared information with a scammer, report it as soon as possible at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Additional Resources from Regions.com
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The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.