The Walmart Survey Rewards Scam is a fake giveaway scheme that impersonates Walmart and promises expensive prizes in exchange for completing a short customer survey.
The prize may be a Dell laptop, Samsung Galaxy phone, Samsung TV, iPhone, iPad, YETI cooler, YETI Beach Lounge Wagon, kitchen appliance, gift card, or another high-value product.
The offer may look simple: answer a few questions, pick a prize box, confirm your details, and pay a small shipping fee such as $9.95. But the real goal is usually to collect personal information, steal payment details, and enroll victims into unwanted subscriptions that are difficult to cancel.
Scam Overview
The Walmart Survey Rewards Scam is a phishing-style reward scam that uses Walmart’s name, logo, and familiar retail branding to trick people into trusting a fake offer.
The scam usually starts with an email, text message, pop-up, or social media ad. The message says the recipient has been selected for a Walmart customer appreciation reward, loyalty gift, product testing opportunity, survey prize, or limited-time giveaway.
Common fake prizes include:
Dell laptops
Samsung Galaxy phones
Samsung Smart TVs
Apple iPhones
Apple iPads
YETI coolers
YETI Beach Lounge Wagons
Ninja kitchen appliances
Dyson-style products
Walmart gift cards
Mystery boxes
“Premium customer rewards”
The exact prize changes because scammers test different hooks. A Samsung phone may attract one group of victims. A Dell laptop may attract students or remote workers. A YETI wagon or cooler may perform better during summer. A Walmart gift card sounds believable because Walmart is a major retailer and many people shop there regularly.
The scam often uses names like:
Walmart Survey Rewards
Walmart Customer Rewards
Walmart Loyalty Program
Walmart Shopper Survey
Walmart Product Testing
Walmart Customer Appreciation
Walmart Rewards Department
Walmart Gift Center
These names sound official, but they are usually fabricated. The sender address may come from Gmail, Outlook, a random domain, a hacked account, or a spoofed email sender. Scammers often rely on the display name because many people see “Walmart Rewards” and do not check the full email address.
The link inside the message rarely goes to Walmart.com. Instead, it may lead to a random domain, a shortened link, a cloud-hosted page, or a chain of redirects. From there, victims are pushed through a fake survey funnel.
The survey usually asks only a few generic questions. It may ask whether you shop at Walmart, how often you visit, whether you are satisfied, and whether you would recommend Walmart. These questions are not real market research. They are used to make the scam feel like a legitimate customer feedback campaign.
After the survey, the page often shows a fake prize game. The victim is asked to pick a box. The first box may be empty. Then the page gives another attempt, and the second box reveals a prize. This is scripted. The “loss” and “win” are designed to make the result feel more believable.
Next, the victim is asked to enter personal information, including name, phone number, email address, and home address. The final page asks for credit card details to pay a small shipping or handling fee, often around $9.95.
That small payment is the trap. Once the card is entered, victims may be charged immediately and may later discover recurring subscription fees. These charges may appear under unrelated merchant names, making them harder to identify and cancel.
The scam is effective because it combines trust, excitement, and urgency. Walmart is a familiar brand. The prize feels valuable. The survey feels easy. The shipping fee feels small. By the time the victim reaches the payment page, the scam has already created enough momentum to make the request seem reasonable.
But a real prize does not require your credit card information for a surprise shipping fee. The FTC specifically warns that fake prize scams often ask victims to pay money or provide account information to receive a prize that does not exist.
How The Walmart Survey Rewards Scam Works
1. You Receive a Fake Walmart Reward Message
The scam begins with a message claiming that Walmart has selected you for a reward.
The message may say:
“You have been chosen to receive a Walmart reward.”
“Complete this short survey to claim your gift.”
“Your Walmart customer appreciation prize is waiting.”
“You have won a Samsung TV from Walmart.”
“Your iPhone reward has been reserved.”
“Claim your YETI product today.”
“Answer 4 questions and receive your free gift.”
The message may use Walmart’s colors, logo, product images, and official-looking formatting. It may also include a large “Claim Your Reward” or “Start Survey” button.
2. The Sender Address Looks Suspicious
The sender name may say “Walmart Survey Rewards,” but the actual email address may not belong to Walmart.
This is one of the easiest ways to spot the scam. A legitimate Walmart email should come from a Walmart-controlled domain, not a random personal account or unrelated website. Walmart’s own fraud guidance tells users who suspect a fraudulent email claiming to be from Walmart to send it to Walmart as an attachment for review.
3. The Link Sends You Away From Walmart
The button may look official, but the destination is often not Walmart.com.
Scammers use redirect links to hide the final destination. A victim may click one link, pass through several domains, and land on a fake survey page that has nothing to do with Walmart.
This is a major warning sign. If a Walmart reward cannot be verified by going directly to Walmart’s official website or app, it should not be trusted.
4. The Fake Survey Asks Generic Questions
The survey is usually short and vague.
It may ask:
Are you a Walmart customer?
How often do you shop at Walmart?
Are you satisfied with Walmart?
Would you recommend Walmart?
Which product category do you prefer?
What age group are you in?
The questions are intentionally easy. The goal is not to collect useful feedback. The goal is to make the victim feel like they have completed a legitimate step before receiving a prize.
5. The Page Shows a Fake Prize Box Game
After the survey, the scam page may show a prize game with boxes, gift bags, packages, or spinning wheels.
The first attempt often fails. Then the page allows another attempt, and the second attempt wins.
This is not chance. It is a psychological trick.
The fake loss makes the later win feel more exciting. It also makes the victim feel as if they have earned the reward, which increases the chance they will continue to the next page.
6. You Are Told You Won an Expensive Prize
The site then announces that you have won the advertised product.
Depending on the version, it may claim you won:
A Dell laptop
A Samsung Galaxy phone
A Samsung TV
An iPhone
A YETI cooler
A YETI Beach Lounge Wagon
A Walmart gift card
A kitchen appliance
A mystery reward
The page may include fake comments from supposed winners. It may show countdown timers, limited-stock warnings, or messages saying the reward will expire if you do not act quickly.
These urgency tactics are designed to stop you from leaving the page and checking whether the offer is real.
7. The Scam Collects Your Personal Information
The next page asks for delivery details.
This may include:
Full name
Email address
Phone number
Home address
City
State
ZIP code
This information can be used for spam, fake delivery messages, future phishing attempts, scam calls, or resale to other marketing and fraud networks.
Even if you do not enter your card, submitting your personal details can still create problems.
8. The Final Page Requests a Small Shipping Fee
The last step asks for payment.
The page says the prize is free, but you must pay a small fee for:
Shipping
Handling
Processing
Insurance
Verification
Delivery confirmation
The amount is usually small, such as $4.95, $6.95, $9.95, or $12.95.
This is the main trap. The payment form gives the operators your credit card details. The FTC warns that requests for money or account information to claim a prize are a clear sign of a fake prize scam.
9. Victims May Be Enrolled in Unwanted Subscriptions
After the payment, victims may not receive the promised prize. Instead, they may see recurring charges on their card.
These charges may appear as:
Trial memberships
Shopping clubs
Rewards clubs
Lifestyle subscriptions
Product discount programs
VIP access plans
Monthly service fees
The merchant name may not mention Walmart, the prize, or the fake survey. That makes the charge harder to recognize.
Cancellation can also be difficult. Some victims find that the support number does not work, the cancellation page is confusing, or the company claims the victim agreed to recurring billing by accepting the checkout terms.
Common Red Flags
Watch for these warning signs:
The message says you won a prize you never entered to win.
The email uses a generic greeting like “Dear Walmart customer.”
The sender address is not an official Walmart domain.
The link does not go to Walmart.com.
The survey asks only a few generic questions.
The page uses a “pick a box” or prize wheel game.
You lose first, then win on the second try.
The prize is expensive, but the only requirement is a short survey.
The site asks for credit card details to pay shipping.
The checkout page mentions trials, subscriptions, memberships, or recurring billing.
The merchant name on your card statement does not match Walmart.
The page uses countdown timers or “limited supply” warnings.
The simplest rule: if a free Walmart reward asks for your credit card, stop.
What To Do If You Received a Walmart Survey Rewards Email
Do not click the link.
If you already opened the email but did not enter information, close the page and delete the message.
You should also:
Mark the email as spam or phishing.
Check the sender address.
Do not reply to the message.
Do not call phone numbers listed in the email.
Do not download attachments.
Visit Walmart’s official website directly if you want to verify an offer.
Walmart says suspicious emails claiming to be from Walmart can be sent to OnlineAbuse@walmart.com as an attachment. Walmart also recommends reporting scams to law enforcement, the FTC, and the Internet Crime Complaint Center when appropriate.
What To Do If You Entered Personal Information
If you entered your name, address, phone number, or email address, be cautious.
You may receive more scam attempts, including:
Fake delivery texts
Fake Walmart order alerts
Fake subscription cancellation emails
Prize confirmation messages
Scam phone calls
Phishing emails pretending to be from banks or retailers
Do not click unexpected links. Do not provide more information. Treat follow-up messages about the “reward” as suspicious.
What To Do If You Entered Credit Card Details
If you entered payment information, act immediately.
1. Contact Your Bank or Card Issuer
Call the number on the back of your card.
Tell them you entered your card details on a suspected fake Walmart survey reward site.
Ask them to:
Block or replace the card
Review recent charges
Stop recurring billing attempts
Dispute unauthorized charges
Monitor the account for additional activity
Do not wait for a large charge. These scams often begin with a small shipping fee and follow with larger recurring payments.
2. Check for Hidden Subscription Charges
Review your statement for unfamiliar merchant names.
Look for small initial charges followed by larger charges days or weeks later.
The billing descriptor may not say Walmart. It may use a generic company name, product club name, or payment processor label.
3. Save Evidence
Keep screenshots or copies of:
The original message
The sender address
The link
The survey page
The prize page
The payment page
Any confirmation email
The charge on your bank statement
This can help when disputing charges.
4. Report the Scam
Report the message through your email provider or mobile carrier.
You can also report it to Walmart, the FTC, your bank, and other relevant authorities. Walmart’s fraud alert page lists reporting resources, including the FTC and the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
The Bottom Line
The Walmart Survey Rewards Scam is a fake giveaway campaign that promises prizes such as Dell laptops, Samsung phones, Samsung TVs, iPhones, YETI products, gift cards, and other expensive items.
The scam follows a predictable path: a fake Walmart message, a short survey, a rigged prize game, a personal information form, and a small shipping fee. That fee is used to collect credit card details and may trigger unwanted subscription charges.
A real prize should not require your credit card. If a Walmart survey reward asks you to pay $9.95 or another small fee to claim a “free” item, close the page immediately. If you already paid, contact your bank and monitor your account for recurring charges.
FAQ
Is the Walmart Survey Rewards email real?
No. Most Walmart Survey Rewards emails offering free phones, laptops, TVs, iPhones, YETI products, gift cards, or other expensive items are scams. They use Walmart’s name to make fake prize offers look legitimate.
What prizes are used in the Walmart Survey Rewards scam?
Common fake prizes include Dell laptops, Samsung Galaxy phones, Samsung TVs, Apple iPhones, iPads, YETI coolers, YETI Beach Lounge Wagons, Ninja appliances, Dyson-style products, Walmart gift cards, and mystery rewards.
Why does the message say I was selected?
Scammers use phrases like “you have been selected,” “your reward is waiting,” or “customer appreciation gift” to make the offer feel personal. In reality, the same message is usually sent to thousands of people.
What happens if I click the Walmart survey link?
You are usually taken to a fake survey page with a few generic questions. After that, the site may show a “pick a box” prize game, tell you that you won, ask for your personal details, and then request a small shipping fee.
Why does the scam ask for a $9.95 shipping fee?
The small shipping fee is used to make the offer feel harmless. But once you enter your card details, scammers may charge your card, enroll you in unwanted subscriptions, or sell your payment information.
Will I receive the Walmart reward after paying?
Usually, no. These fake pages are not operated by Walmart. The promised prize often never arrives, and victims may later discover recurring charges from unfamiliar companies.
How can I tell the Walmart survey reward is fake?
Warning signs include a random sender address, a link that does not go to Walmart.com, generic wording, poor formatting, a fake prize game, countdown timers, requests for shipping fees, and credit card forms for a “free” item.
What should I do if I entered my personal information?
Watch for follow-up scams. You may receive fake delivery texts, prize confirmation emails, scam calls, or more phishing messages. Do not click unexpected links or provide additional information.
What should I do if I entered my credit card details?
Contact your bank or card issuer immediately. Ask them to block or replace the card, stop recurring payments, review recent transactions, and dispute any unauthorized charges.
How do I report the Walmart Survey Rewards scam?
Mark the email or text as spam or phishing. You can also report it to Walmart through its official fraud reporting channels, to your bank if you paid, and to the FTC or your local consumer protection agency.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
