You may wonder you can make money by completing online surveys. The answer is yes; however, there are far more scams online than programs that really pay. Here’s an in-depth look at how this industry works.
How Legitimate Companies Work
There are two types of companies that legitimately pay for completing surveys: Research companies and corporations doing their own research directly.
Their primary focus is in gathering research data that will help them in the running of their businesses. The research can be on demographic research, opinion research, logo testing, how easy a website is to use, and a whole host of other things. Typically, you will get paid with a small amount of cash OR through gift certificates or discounts. Even if you manage to get on many surveys, it is very difficult to make a real living completing out surveys.
How Scams Posing as Surveys Works
There are many, many websites posing as survey sites that are really scams. These can work in one of two ways.
First, there are websites that require you to pay a fee to get started. These come in many forms. Some will ask you for a fee for an e-book on how to “learn” to take surveys for money. Others will sell you lists of companies that pay for surveys. Others will ask you for shipping and handling in order to send you a kit, when in reality they will bill you additional charges later.
The bottom line is that if a survey company ever asks you for credit card information, it is probably a scam. A real market research company will never ask you to pay for anything. Another way these websites scam people is by selling leads. Websites pose as market research companies, when in reality they are collecting your data and selling it to marketers.
The best way to avoid these companies is to do your research. Research consumer complaint websites and the Better Business Bureau before engaging in business with any survey company. And also remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
One final word. Although you can make money by taking surveys online, many survey companies do their testing in person. Finding a taste test that will pay you $30 in cash is a lot easier than finding a legitimate online survey that would pay you only $1. Look for research companies in your local area if you can, rather than completing online surveys.
So are online survey sites a scam? The answer is both yes and no. Some are, some aren’t. It’s not the easiest way to earn money, but if you put in the hours and the research, it can be done.
