Privacy and evidence in mystery shopping
Which data and evidence may be relevant to an assignment and where shoppers should take particular care.
Not every detail belongs in a report
A mystery-shopping report should focus on observations required by the assignment. Extra names, private contact details or other personal information should not be collected or shared without a clear reason.
Evidence may be required
Depending on the project, receipts or other proof of the assignment may be required. Check in advance which documents are actually needed and which approved channel should be used to submit them.
Credentials and security codes remain private
Passwords, one-time banking codes, full card security details or access codes are not normal shopper-profile information. Any request to disclose such information should be treated with particular caution.
Ask before sending unusual information
If an assignment asks for unusual data, photographs or documents, clarify the purpose and necessity with the responsible agency or principal before sending them. Less data with a clear purpose is usually better than sending everything “just in case”.
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