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Fraudsters are taking advantage of a nationwide shortage of baby formulas, tricking consumers into paying high prices through fraudulent online stores, the Federal Trade Commission said Wednesday.
Fraudsters lure “desperate parents and caregivers” through fake websites or social media profiles with images and logos of famous formula brands, reports consumer notice. Consumers think they are buying on the company’s official website, but the formula never comes, the FTC said.
“Fraudsters who are in high demand for baby formulas have fallen to new lows,” – said in the department.
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Deficiency of infant formula started early in the Covid-19 pandemic, but has worsened in recent weeks. There is a deficit partly due before the Michigan plant closes in February; two infants who used the mixture produced there, picked up bacterial infections and died.
Food and Drug Administration reached a deal with plant owner, Abbott Nutrition, Nation the largest formula manufacturer, on Monday to help alleviate the deficit.
The White House said last week this would facilitate the import of formulas from abroad, among other measures.
Tips
Here are some ways the FTC recommends avoiding child formula fraud:
- Use a search engine to check a company or product. Use search terms such as “review”, “complaint” or “scam”.
- Only fraudsters will require payment by gift card, money order or cryptocurrency. Credit card payments often provide the greatest protection; sometimes you can get your money back if you ordered something that never arrived.
- Know your rights. Sellers must submit an order online within the time specified in their advertisement (or within 30 days if the ads do not give time). If the seller is unable to ship so far, he must notify you of the revised delivery date with the option to cancel for a full refund or accept a new delivery date.
- Search for local resources. For example, your pediatrician may have a mixture available and can help. Participants in Women, babies and children The (WIC) Nutrition Assistance Program can contact your local office to find a mixture.
