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If you respond to an ad like this one...
YOU COULD
GET
SCAMMED!!!
ArthritiCure does NOT EXIST. The
ArthritiCure
product website is a fake, posted by the Federal Trade
Commission to alert consumers to online marketing of unproven alternative medical
treatments.
An estimated $10 billion is spent yearly on unproven arthritis
remedies. One in 10 people who have tried unproven arthritis remedies report harmful side
effects, according to a U.S. Department of Heath and Human
Services survey.
Any remedy, no matter how harmless, can become harmful if it stops
or delays someone from seeking a prescribed treatment program from their physician.
How can you tell if an advertising claim for a "miracle"
health-related product is likely to be phony, exaggerated, or unproven? Here are some
tip-offs that generally signal a rip-off:
- phrases like "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous
cure," "exclusive product," "secret formula," and "ancient
ingredient."
- use of "medicalese" - impressive-sounding terminology to
disguise a lack of good science.
- case histories from "cured" consumers claiming amazing
results. Their testimonials also imply that their experience is typical for consumers
using the product or service. When you see a testimonial, ask for proof of its
"typical" nature.
- a laundry list of symptoms the product cures or treats.
- the latest trendy ingredient touted in the headlines.
- a claim that the product is available from only one source, for a
limited time.
- testimonials from "famous" medical experts.
- a claim that the government, the medical profession or research
scientists have conspired to suppress the product.
For more information on alternative treatments and online
advertising contact the Federal Trade Commission. Or
check out these consumer publications:
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