After many months of non-action, the
FTC announced a new lawsuit (see below) will be filed on Monday
against a company behind many of the Acai Berry Scams that are ripping off so many consumers looking
for help with their weight loss battles.
Unfortunately, the announcement
scheduled for Monday is about a SINGLE COMPANY! Yes, it is better
than the nothing the FTC has been doing to protect consumers, and we
are hopeful that it will send a message to others that they are
finally waking up to the battle.
But don't expect the scammers to give
up overnight. In the last significant blow of this battle, Visa
cancelled the accounts of Acai Berry Scammers The went
after about 100 companies that process the fraudulent charges. But
that action didn't noticeably slow down the scammers, so we don't
really think this puny action will do much either.
This
article on AcaiBerrySite.com will be following the action
and keeping all appraised of the effectiveness of the FTC in
combatting the scams.
FTC to Announce Action Against
Internet Marketers of Acai Berry Weight-Loss Pills and "Colon
Cleansers"
Millions of consumers who are anxious
to lose weight or prevent cancer have seen the ads: “…USE WITH
CAUTION! Major weight loss in short periods of time may occur,” or
“detoxify your organs,” and break down and remove “toxic waste
matter which may have been stuck in the folds and wrinkles of your
digestive system for years and years.” Come and learn from the
victims themselves what the “free” trials of these products have
cost, and how the Federal Trade Commission and the business
community are taking action.
The
Federal Trade Commission will hold a press conference
on Monday, August 16, 2010, at 10 a.m., to announce a
lawsuit against a company that marketed acai berry weight-loss
supplements and “colon cleansing” supplements by promising
consumers “free” trials of the products.
WHO:
David C. Vladeck, Director,
FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection Martin Elliott, Senior
Business Leader, Payment System Risk, Visa Inc. Two consumers who
lost money on “free” trial offers promised by this company.
WHEN: Monday, August 16, 2010, 10
a.m. (The room will be open 30 minutes early for media set
up.)
WHERE: Federal Trade Commission,
Midwest Region
55 West Monroe Street, Suite 1825
Chicago, Illinois
Call in
for Information: The toll-free phone number in the U.S.
and Canada is (866) 363-9013, the confirmation number is 94253184,
and the chairperson is Gail Kingsland. The lines, which are for
media only, will open at 9:45 a.m. CST. Please reference the
confirmation number when joining the call.
PRESS
CONTACT: FTC Office of Public Affairs
202-326-2180
