How to become a mystery shopper in the UK (and avoid the scams)
In short
To become a mystery shopper in the UK, sign up with a genuine mystery shopping company, pick visits that suit you, complete them like a normal customer, and send an honest report with proof. You are then paid for each approved visit. Genuine companies never ask you to pay to join or to send money on their behalf.
What mystery shoppers do
You use a business just like any customer would. That might mean phoning to ask a question, using a website or live chat, placing an order or visiting a shop. Then you write an honest report on what happened. With PaidReview most visits are phone calls or website visits you can do from home in a few minutes.
Who can do it
- UK residents aged 16 or over
- Anyone with a smartphone, an email address and a UK bank account
- People who are honest, careful and don't take shortcuts
No experience is needed. What makes a good mystery shopper is attention to detail and honesty. A report that says what really happened is worth far more to a business than a polite one.
How you get paid
You are paid a set fee for every visit that is approved. At PaidReview, approved visits go into your balance and you can request a payout to your bank whenever you like, usually arriving within 24 hours.
How to spot a mystery shopping scam
- They ask you to pay a joining fee, training fee or for a “starter pack”. Genuine companies never do.
- They send you a cheque and ask you to pay some of it back or transfer it on. This is a classic fraud.
- They want you to buy gift cards or send money as the “assignment”.
- They contact you out of the blue offering big money for little work.
If anything asks you to send money, walk away.
Getting started with PaidReview
It is free to join. Sign up on your phone, add PaidReview to your home screen and pick your first visit. Read more about being a PaidReview shopper.
Common questions
Do mystery shoppers get paid?
Yes. Genuine mystery shoppers are paid for each completed and approved visit. You should never have to pay anything to become one.
Can you mystery shop from home?
Yes. Many visits are phone calls or website checks, which you can do from home on your phone in a few minutes.
Do I need to leave reviews as a mystery shopper?
Not with PaidReview. You are paid for the visit and the report. Some businesses invite shoppers to leave an honest review, which is always optional and must say you were a paid mystery shopper.