COFFEE COUNTY, Tenn. — The Coffee County Sheriff’s Department is warning the public about a fraudulent “mystery shopper” scam after residents reported receiving official-looking letters and cashier’s checks instructing recipients to purchase gift cards and send payment details to unknown individuals.
According to authorities, the scam involves a mailed letter claiming to be from a “Service Management Group” or similar entity, falsely presenting itself as a legitimate employer working with major retailers. The letter instructs recipients to evaluate local retail stores by purchasing large-denomination gift cards and submitting photos of the cards and receipts as part of a supposed secret shopping assignment.
The materials reviewed include a detailed instruction sheet directing recipients to deposit an enclosed cashier’s check totaling $2,570.29, keep a portion as “salary,” and use the remaining funds to purchase $2,000 in Apple gift cards. Victims are then instructed to send photos of the gift cards, including the revealed codes, via text message or email.
Law enforcement officials stress that this is a classic gift card scam, designed to exploit victims before the fraudulent check is discovered by the bank.
How the Scam Works - Investigators say the cashier’s check included with the letter appears authentic at first glance and may initially clear when deposited. However, once the bank later determines the check is counterfeit, the victim is left financially responsible for the full amount withdrawn or spent.
Scammers rely on urgency, professionalism, and secrecy, instructing recipients not to discuss the assignment with store employees or supervisors. Once the gift card codes are sent, the funds are immediately drained and unrecoverable.
Sheriff’s Department Warning:
In a statement released by the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, officials said:
“FRAUD WARNING: If anyone receives one of these letters in the picture below please notify your local law enforcement agency. This is a fraudulent company.”
Authorities emphasize that legitimate employers or survey companies will never send checks and request gift card purchases as part of a job assignment.
What to Do If You Receive One:
Residents who receive similar letters or checks are urged to:
- Do not deposit the check
- Do not purchase gift cards
- Do not text or email the sender
- Contact local law enforcement immediately
- Report the scam to their bank and the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
The Coffee County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate reports related to the scam and encourages residents, especially seniors and those seeking employment opportunities, to remain vigilant.
