| Beware of flu scams |
|
Posted: Thursday, May 7, 2009 12:34 pm
|
State officials are warning consumers to be on the lookout for fraudulent emails and Web sites trying to cash in on the recent H1N1 flu outbreak in addition to false claims for possible “cures” or drugs alleged to immunize consumers from the flu.
Consumers should be aware of a host of fraudulent claims popping up on Web sites all over the Internet.
Among them are claims for drugs such as “Tamiflu,” which may or may not be legitimate.
In addition, some Internet sites are merely ploys to possibly steal personal information and commit identify theft.
The Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau have put out notices warning of such scams as a “(H1N1) Flu Survival Guide” for $19.95 and e-mails with links to online pharmacies.
Some people have reported getting emails with the phrase “(H1N1) Flu” in the subject line. The emails can have links to ads for a supposed flu medicine.
“Clicking on a spam Web site can be dangerous to your health and your credit,” Attorney General Bob Cooper said.
“It’s possible for someone to steal your credit card information or to trick you into buying bogus medicine or a worthless product.”
Attorney General Cooper warns against opening any spam emails that purport to sell products against the swine flu.
“It is very important when dealing with health officials to make sure you seek the advice of licensed medical professionals and only use FDA approved products for the particular disease,” said Commissioner Susan Cooper, MSN, RN of the state Department of Health.
WCP 5.07.09
|
|
Printer-friendly format
|
|
