For Release
FTC and State of Wisconsin Warn Hearing Aid Sellers About Deceptive Stimulus Payment Claims
The Federal Trade Commission and the state of Wisconsin have sent warning letters to a company that placed newspaper advertisements and social media posts suggesting it could provide government stimulus money to customers to purchase their hearing aids.
The letters highlight claims included in the ads and posts that implied consumers were eligible for such a benefit, including language such as “COVID-19 HEALTHCARE STIMULUS PROGRAM” and “Receive up to $3000 through our HEALTHCARE STIMULUS PROGRAM. Must register by July 31.”
The ads and posts also included the Great Seal of the United States next to a headline reading “FREE HEARING AIDS.”
The letters warn the recipients to cease making all deceptive claims and instruct them to notify the FTC and State of Wisconsin within 48 hours about the specific actions they have taken to address the concerns raised in the letters.
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