Consumer Alert
Did your favorite Shark Tank celebrity really endorse THAT? Probably not
Before you spend money on that “Shark-approved” miracle invention, weight loss product, or keto diet pill, are you sure it’s really been through the Tank? Really sure? Scammers are using fake Shark Tank celebrity testimonials and endorsements — complete with doctored photos and videos — to generate buzz and profits. Before you click and buy, follow this advice and check it out.
Here’s what to do if you’re wondering whether something is Shark-approved:
- Approach celebrity testimonials with caution. Look for product reviews on your own. Search the product online and put words like “scam” or “problems” or “complaints” to see what others are saying about the products.
- Go directly to the source. Don’t click on a link or ad. Instead, check out a full list of all businesses that have been on the show at abc.com/SharkTank.
- Remember: the government doesn’t review or evaluate supplements for safety or effectiveness before they’re put on the market. Your health care professional is the most important person to ask whether a supplement is safe for you. Even a natural supplement can be risky depending on your health and the medicine you take.
Have you spotted one of these bogus promotions? Report it to the FTC. Find out more about common health scams at ftc.gov/miraclehealth.
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The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.
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As I recall, some of these ads show pictures of celebrities and quote them. Never mind that the celebrity never made the quote, isn't it illegal to use someone's picture commercially without their consent?
In reply to As I recall, some of these… by Marnix A. van…
If these celebrities are not getting a financial kick back, why haven't they sued these companies?
In reply to If these celebrities are not… by Gerry P
From what I read, Oprah is suing the gummy product..
In reply to As I recall, some of these… by Marnix A. van…
I can't understand why this is legal! It seems to be just as bad as a Nigerian prince scam or an Indian Microsoft scam. What is the difference? It seems to me that this is a perfect example of false advertising, misleading information, and very manipulate. Weight loss is such a touchy subject for people. It's awful.
In reply to I can't understand why this… by Honey Smith
I agree with you 100 percent!!! How can they let this happen!!
Hi ftc.gov administrator, Your posts are always well-received by the community.
There has been a steady steam of weight loss ads on the net. By answering one and whether or not you purchase , it opens the flood gates with similar offers
Dear ftc.gov administrator, You always provide valuable feedback and suggestions.
Last night I found a link to Keto Weight loss endorsed by Shark Tank from a Facebook friend. The advertisement quoted $39.99. When they billed me it was $199 and another for $59. I tried to cancel right after purchase and was told since I disputed that I couldn't cancel and to wait until delivery. I told them I wanted it canceled and then waited. I'm hoping the transaction cancelled. The 59.99 charge was compulsory to get through the original purchase of $39 which ended up being 199. Put a stop to this company please. I saw the same 5 bottles advertised online afterwards for $89.99.
In reply to Last night I found a link to… by Dianne Bey
Report scams and bogus promotions to the FTC at www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov. The information you give helps law enforcement investigations.
In reply to Last night I found a link to… by Dianne Bey
I had the same issue. 199 out of right field. I canceled and the firm/scammers kept sending the product. Doesn't work.