FTC: Fake Clorox and Lysol websites trying to trick people into using detergents

BY COLLEEN TRESSLER
Consumer and Business Education Department, FTC

Scammers follow the headlines. They use what is happening on the news to find new ways to get people to throw their money away. During the COVID pandemic, cleaning products were in great demand, but often in short supply. Criminals see this as an opportunity.

Today the FTC announced a lawsuit against the defendants who use fake websites (with real product names in the web address) and pictures and logos of genuine products from well-known brands such as Clorox and Lysol - anything people can believe. They buy products. on the company's official websites.

Image of the Clorox scammer courtesy of the FTC

The FTC says that none of the sites are owned, affiliated with, or licensed by the companies that make Clorox and Lysol, and that none of the people who paid for the cleaning and disinfection products at those sites receive it Has. that she ordered.

The FTC is working to shut down websites, prevent defendants from creating websites in the future, and help people protect themselves from such scams.

Before placing an order in an unfamiliar online store, keep the following tips in mind to avoid fraud:

● When trying to find items that you know are in high demand and in short supply, such as: B. Detergents or PPE in the middle of a pandemic, you need to be very careful when shopping online, especially if the seller is offering items that are generally out of stock. elsewhere in stock.

● Look at the conditions of sale. Calculate the total price including taxes, shipping costs. Find out when you can expect your delivery. If you need to return the item, can you get a refund? Who pays the return costs? Is there a restocking fee?

● Pay by credit card. You have federal law protection so you don't have to pay for goods you ordered but not received.

● If you have a problem with an online purchase, try to resolve it with the seller. However, please note the following: You have the right to reverse an unauthorized or fraudulent charge directly from your credit card issuer. Filing a chargeback dispute. And if you suspect a scam, notify the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov . For more information on how to prevent COVID fraud , please visit ftc.gov/coronavirus .

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The information above is from the Federal Trade Commission for Consumer Information Blog .

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