Better Business Bureau warns of GLP-1 weight loss scams
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As many people begin the New Year with resolutions focused on health and wellness, scammers are taking advantage of those searching for weight loss solutions.
News 12’s Lillian Yi reports that the Better Business Bureau of Chattanooga is warning the community about a growing number of scams involving popular weight loss medications.
Michele Mason, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Better Business Bureau of Chattanooga, says one of the biggest warning signs is how the medication is being offered.
“For something like Ozempic, it requires a prescription through a doctor, so you should have a prescription in hand,” Mason said. “If someone is claiming they can get you the drug without a prescription, that is a huge red flag.”
The Bureau says scammers often target people by promising fast results, while tricking them into handing over money and personal information.
“Be extremely careful about imposter scams or any kind of weight loss products that may be promoted on the market that are not valid,” Mason said.
According to Mason, these scams frequently appear through online advertisements and text messages.
Some even use advanced technology to appear legitimate.
“You also have to be careful with ads now, especially with deep fakes and artificial intelligence,” she said. “We are seeing so many fake ads that use celebrities as a way to add authenticity, but in reality they are fake and designed to get your money.”
Mason warns that even if a physical product is delivered, it may not contain what the seller claims if it did not come through a licensed physician.
“If they are in another country, for example, they have not gone through Food and Drug Administration scrutiny or customs,” she said. “You do not know if the product coming over is actually what is in the vial.”
The Better Business Bureau also encourages consumers to protect themselves when making purchases online.
“We always recommend people shop with a credit card because it gives you your biggest protection,” Mason said. “That way you can work with your bank or financial institution to dispute any charges.”
The Bureau urges anyone considering weight loss medications to consult a licensed healthcare provider and report suspected scams to help protect others in the community.
The Bureau says staying informed and cautious can help protect both your health and your wallet as the new year begins.
