The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sent out a consumer alert that scammers are targeting parents and caregivers in desperate need of baby formula.
According to the FTC, scammers are creating fake online profiles, which they use to trick parents and caregivers into paying hefty prices for baby formula that never arrives.
The FTC added that scammers lure their victims with fake websites or social media profiles using images and logos of popular baby formula brands.
The trade commission recommended some ways by which parents and caregivers can avoid falling into the hands of scammers:
- Make inquiries about the company and seller before making a purchase. Typing the company’s name in a search engine with terms like “review,” “complaint,” or “scam” can help parents know what others are saying about them.
- Always pay with credit cards as they provide the greatest protection against scams. They also often guarantee a refund if products are not delivered. Parents are urged not to make payments by gift card, money transfer, or cryptocurrency because these methods are often exploited by scammers.
- Sellers are supposed to ship online orders within the time written in their adverts or 30 days if not stated. Parents and caregivers are warned to demand their money back if a seller does not deliver within those time frames.
- Searching for baby formula locally can also help parents and caregivers avoid scammers. Parents should talk to their local pediatrician to see if they have formula in stock. The FTC asks participants in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition assistance program to contact their local office to find formula.
As reported by The Dallas Express, the baby formula shortage in the country has gotten worse in recent weeks. The deficit was caused in part by a major voluntary recall of three popular baby formula brands earlier this year.
Abbott Nutrition recalled certain Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare baby formula powders after reports of infant illness and even death from an infection possibly linked to the product.
The recall, coupled with the ongoing supply chain issue that has seen many stores run out of stock, resulted in a nationwide shortage.
The FTC urged parents and caregivers to report any suspected scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Reporting scammers helps the commission and law enforcement stop them.
