Hello fellow shoppers, competitors, colleagues. Or just members. Maybe some of you, friends
I wanted to share the email that I received today from MSPA Americas. I know not all of us may have received it. It is regarding individuals on social media promoting mystery shopping. I will copy and paste the text here. I hope that many might find it helpful.
Don't feel pressured to discuss, please. There's another thread for that
I am just the messenger
Important Information For Independent Contractor Mystery Shoppers
You may have seen or heard of individuals on social media promoting mystery shopping through courses or content that seem exciting, entertaining, or even helpful. However, it’s important to understand that much of this information is inaccurate, unethical, and harmful to the industry you’re working in.
Yesterday MSPA Americas received a note from a concerned mystery shopper about one of these third-party groups which read:
"There is a social media creator on TikTok who is violating the code of ethics if indeed she is doing mystery shopping. She's filming employees of supposed mystery shops she does, the place, the result and where. She's laughing at ones being terminated, and she's also charging people for her course on mystery shopping. I have enclosed a screenshot of her social media name and account as well as a video of her advertising for her course she charges $97.00 for."
The person she is referring to is Kayla Sansom, but she is not the only one.
To the best of our knowledge, she is not receiving permission from the companies or clients involved to film or share these details. If true, this behavior violates the Code of Professional Standards and Ethics that all reputable companies—and shoppers—are expected to follow.
What You Should Know
MSPA Americas cannot discipline or remove someone who is not a member. Kayla Sansom is not a member, and the association does not endorse her or her content.
You, as an independent contractor, agree to confidentiality, professionalism, and accuracy when you accept assignments through legitimate MSPA member companies.
Filming shops, fabricating information, or publicly sharing shop details without consent is not only unethical—it may be grounds for termination from platforms, legal action, or both.
MSPA Americas exists to protect the integrity of the industry and provide resources that help you do your job ethically and successfully.
What You Can Do
Work only with MSPA Americas-accredited companies
These companies follow ethical standards and provide legitimate opportunities.
Be cautious of people or platforms selling “mystery shopping training” or access to job lists
MSPA does not charge shoppers to access jobs, and legitimate companies do not ask for payment upfront.
Know your rights and responsibilities
Read and understand the IC agreements you sign. They typically include strict confidentiality clauses that prohibit recording, sharing, or falsifying information.
Report misleading content on social media
If you believe a content creator is spreading misinformation or violating confidentiality, you can also report their videos or profiles directly to Meta (Facebook/Instagram) and TikTok. These platforms allow you to flag content that is deceptive, misleading, or harmful.
Stay Aligned with the Professionals
MSPA Americas is the official trade association of the mystery shopping and merchandising industry. We’re here to support you with credible information, job resources, and a professional code of ethics that helps you stand out in the field.
When in doubt, ask before you act—and protect your reputation and the integrity of the entire industry.
Please don't feed the MSF trolls!
Feeding the MSF trolls bread or other human food is detrimental to their health and the environment. It can lead to malnutrition, disease, and behavioral problems in trolls, as well as water pollution and the spread of pests. Trolls are capable of finding their own food sources and don't require human assistance.