1) Always set up a separate email account to receive survey invitations. This will ensure that you don't miss any paid surveys and also any offers that are sent will not go straight into your personal email account.

2) Do not join 'market research sites' that ask for your credit card details as it may be a scam or a site only offering you a database of survey sites.

3) Real survey invitations from reputable market research companies will include the length of time it takes to complete the online survey and also what incentive you will receive, do not respond to any others.

4) Some market research companies may ask you to download a small piece of software to track your internet habits. It is ok to download these but always check that you are downloading from a reputable company before you do it.

5) Watch out for sites that offer you thousands of pounds or dollars to take online surveys. Although it is possible to make some extra money taking surveys you won't become a millionaire doing it.

6) Check for privacy policies on survey websites and only register with a site that has one.

7) Check the terms and conditions of each site.

8) Remain cautious when joining market research sites however once you've found reputable panels have fun and enjoy receiving cash and vouchers on a regular basis.