Market research scam

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A market research scam is phony market research done in order to get unsuspecting participants to view advertising materials, especially television commercials.

[edit] The set-up

Often an unsolicited telephone call will be received from a "market research company" inquiring about television viewing habits. The mark will be invited to participate in a focus group, or be mailed a videotape to watch -- the 1997 sit-com pilot "Dads" is a popular choice. Afterwards, an interviewer will ask questions about the show and more questions about the commercials. Upon completion of the "survey" one may receive a nominal sum or the chance to win a prize.