Unveiling the TikTok Weight Loss Drug Scam: False Promises
and Risks Uncovered
The allure of weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic has
surged in recent years, leading to a widespread shortage. Capitalizing on this
soaring demand, scammers on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have
begun offering these prescription medications at discounted rates and without
the need for a prescription.
A collaborative investigation spanning from February to
April, conducted by the non-profit organizations Digital Citizens Alliance and
Coalition for a Safer Web, scrutinized numerous TikTok profiles peddling these
prescription weight loss drugs at reduced prices. However, virtually every
transaction uncovered during the investigation ultimately proved to be
fraudulent.
Many of the videos discovered by researchers featured
glowing testimonials and before-and-after images seemingly showcasing the
efficacy of the weight loss drugs. One video even included a purported
customer's comment boasting, "Great product, fast shipping, and I lost 16
pounds already." Nevertheless, all such videos were identified as
deceptive ploys aimed at ensnaring vulnerable individuals eager to shed excess
weight.
Tom Galvin from the Digital Citizens Alliance elucidated,
"As we scoured TikTok over time due to its algorithm, these operators
began to surface. It wasn't difficult to find several dozen offering Ozempic.
However, in each instance, they proved to be fraudulent."
Galvin recounted engaging in numerous online conversations
with these purported sellers, some of whom purported to be legitimate
pharmacies offering to dispatch Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy. Despite
accepting payments via online platforms like Zelle, PayPal, and Venmo, the
researchers reported never receiving any of the promised products.
In response to the investigation, TikTok informed CBS News
that it has taken measures to remove accounts violating its guidelines. A
TikTok spokesperson reiterated the platform's "firm policies prohibiting
this behavior" and disclosed that it proactively identifies and removes
95% of content violating rules against drugs and scams in the U.S.
Galvin underscored the detrimental consequences for
consumers who fall victim to such advertisements. "One is that you'll be
defrauded. Two is that you'll receive counterfeit and potentially harmful
drugs. And three is, even if you receive authentic Ozempic, using it without
medical supervision can pose serious risks."
According to a survey by Digital Citizens, approximately one
in six Americans have utilized Ozempic or a comparable drug, primarily for
managing diabetes. A TikTok spokesperson acknowledged the limitations of the
study, noting that only a few problematic accounts were identified and that
prescription drug scams are prevalent across other social media platforms as
well.
Meanwhile, the manufacturer of Ozempic and Wegovy emphasized
to CBS News that their products come in varying dosages and should not be used
without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
