The ketogenic diet, with its high-fat, low-carbohydrate regimen, has gained immense popularity as a weight-loss strategy. This popularity has, unfortunately, attracted unscrupulous businesses peddling keto diet pills with misleading claims. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of issues surrounding Xtreme Fit Keto and similar products, focusing on customer service concerns, scam alerts, and how to make informed decisions.
Understanding the Concerns: Unauthorized Charges and Refund Disputes
BBB files indicate that businesses offering these products have a pattern of complaints concerning unauthorized and/or unexpected charges and unresolved refund disputes. Consumers report signing up for what they believed was a free trial, only to discover additional, unexpected charges on their credit cards. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) contacted the business in January 2019 about the pattern of complaints, but have not received a response at this time. This lack of responsiveness raises serious concerns about the company's commitment to customer satisfaction.
BBB Business Profiles are provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles.
When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints. BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period, except for customer reviews. Customer reviews posted prior to July 5, 2024, will no longer be published when they reach three years from their submission date. Customer reviews posted on/after July 5, 2024, will be published indefinitely unless otherwise voluntarily retracted by the user who submitted the content, or BBB no longer believes the review is authentic. BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. If you choose to do business with this company, please let them know that you checked their record with BBB.
As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business. Businesses are under no obligation to seek BBB accreditation, and some businesses are not accredited because they have not sought BBB accreditation. BBB charges a fee for BBB Accreditation.
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Real-Life Scam Encounters: Cautionary Tales
Several individuals have fallen victim to keto diet pill scams, highlighting the importance of vigilance. Two women in their 80s just lost more than $200 each in keto diet pill scams. These cases see fraudsters promise pills that supposedly will help dieters shed pounds faster than just adhering to a keto diet's high-fat, low-carbohydrate regimen. Since March, AARP's Fraud Watch Network Helpline has logged more than 25 reports of keto pill scams, an uptick from previous months, says AARP's Amy Nofziger, who oversees the free helpline, 1-877-908-3360. The two octogenarians who lost cash, not pounds, tell cautionary tales as many people are struggling to lose “pandemic pounds” put on while self-isolating and avoiding the gym.
Marjorie, 83, from Oklahoma, encountered a pop-up ad on her smartphone for Ultra Pure 360, claiming rapid weight loss beyond what a keto diet alone could achieve. At first she noticed her debit card was used twice to pay the $6.95 shipping, for a total of $13.90. Then the pills arrived along with a so-called “cleanse” that she did not order; she was charged $189.90 for the products, bringing her total costs to $203.80. Despite attempts to cancel the purchase, she faced resistance and conflicting information from customer service representatives. When AARP called the phone number to ask about Marjorie's experience, a woman on the line gave her name as “Hazel” and called herself a “senior representative.” When asked her full name and to speak to someone about a fraud allegation, the line went dead. Unfortunately, because she used a debit card, she was unable to recover her funds.
Elizabeth, 89, from North Carolina, faced a similar situation after purchasing keto diet pills with a credit card. Now she's fighting for a credit of $235. Her saga also started with a pop-up, like the countless ads she'd ignored in the past. She was unable to return the pills and secure a refund, despite repeated attempts to fill out request forms. At first her credit card company said that since she'd authorized the payment, she was responsible for it.
These stories underscore the tactics used by scammers and the difficulties victims face in recovering their money.
Red Flags and Scam Indicators
Be wary of the following red flags when considering keto diet pills or similar products:
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- Pop-up Ads and Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious of products advertised through unsolicited pop-up ads or emails, especially those making exaggerated claims.
- "Free Trial" Offers: Exercise extreme caution with "free trial" offers that require credit card information. These often lead to recurring charges and difficulty in cancellation.
- Unauthorized Charges: Monitor your credit card statements closely for any unauthorized or unexpected charges.
- Difficulty Contacting Customer Service: A lack of clear contact information or difficulty reaching customer service representatives are major warning signs.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of representatives who pressure you to make a purchase or offer discounts only if you agree to continue with the product.
- Unrealistic Claims: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been warning against such scams for years. In 2014 the agency said: “The reality: The company can't support - or deliver on - those weight-loss claims. If you give your credit or debit account number, you get charged $60 to $210 every month - and it's almost impossible to get a refund.
The Importance of Informed Choices and Reputable Companies
While the experiences detailed above highlight potential scams, it's important to remember that not all keto products or companies are fraudulent. Some companies prioritize customer service and offer legitimate products. For example, KetoVie states: At KetoVie, our goal is to continue to research, continue to innovate, and continue to make lives with epilepsy as everyday as humanly possible. We are in this together. Our knowledge is your knowledge. Our research is your research. Our ideas are your ideas. Remember most of all, you are not alone. We understand that your first priority is providing the best care for yourself and your family. We understand that our service is as valuable as the products we provide. That is why we treat you as we would like to be treated, with respect, honesty and candor. Exceptional service experience. Every time.
Here's how to make informed choices:
- Research the Company: Before purchasing any product, research the company thoroughly. Check their BBB rating, read customer reviews, and look for any complaints or warnings.
- Read the Fine Print: Carefully read the terms and conditions of any offer, especially regarding free trials, recurring charges, and cancellation policies.
- Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any new diet or supplement regimen, consult with a doctor or registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and help you determine if the product is safe and appropriate for you.
- Use Credit Cards: When making online purchases, use a credit card instead of a debit card whenever possible. Federal law affords consumers more protections for credit-card purchases; in fraud cases, consumers generally are on the hook for up to $50 only.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to the FTC and your local law enforcement agency.
Navigating Customer Service and Returns
If you encounter issues with a keto product, such as unauthorized charges or product defects, take the following steps:
- Contact Customer Service Immediately: Contact the company's customer service department as soon as possible to report the problem.
- Keep Records: Keep detailed records of all communication with the company, including dates, times, names of representatives, and summaries of conversations.
- Dispute Unauthorized Charges: If you are charged for products or services you did not authorize, dispute the charges with your credit card company.
- Understand Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with the company's return policy before making a purchase. Be aware of deadlines, required documentation, and any fees associated with returns. For example, regarding returns, KetoVie specifies: Returns must be pre-approved within 14 days of delivery. All returned products must be received 14 days from date of authorization to receive full credit. Damages and short shipments must be reported within 5 business days for credit to be issued or replacement products to be sent. All cases must be unopened and in good condition. Credit will be issued upon receipt and inspection of returned product. Note: If the returned product is due to error on behalf of Cambrooke, we will pay all shipping charges and replace the product immediately.
The Role of Regulatory Agencies
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) play a crucial role in protecting consumers from fraudulent or misleading health claims. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warn that dietary supplements do not require approval before they are marketed. The FTC investigates and takes action against companies that engage in deceptive advertising or marketing practices. Consumers can file complaints with these agencies to report suspected scams or violations.
Celebrities and Endorsements: Proceed with Caution
Be wary of celebrity endorsements of keto diet pills or other weight-loss products. In response, she fired back in profanity-laced tweets about the company as she alerted fans that she made no such endorsement. These endorsements are often paid advertisements and may not reflect the celebrity's genuine opinion or experience. Always do your own research and consult with a healthcare professional before trying any product, regardless of who endorses it.
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