The beginning of a new year is often associated with increased interest in gym memberships, at-home workout equipment and programs designed around living a healthier lifestyle. As consumers recover from holiday celebrations, including holiday dinners typically more robust than the standard fare, the new year offers plenty of opportunities to help shed those extra servings of stuffing. However, it is important to remain mindful of con artists who take advantage of shopper trends for their own gain and to keep realistic fitness goals that can be carried throughout the year.
Online searches for ‘workout equipment’ typically peak in late December or early January as consumers outfit their homes to pursue their fitness goals. Unfortunately, the increased interest in these products is also something scammers take advantage of, shifting their tactics from fraudulent holiday gifts to exercise equipment. Better Business Bureau also receives reports of ‘miracle products,’ often provided in a pill or powder, that guarantee the user will lose a certain amount of weight in a certain timeframe. Advertisements for these products often claim the user will not have to alter their diet or exercise routine, appealing to a wide range of consumers, but come with a monthly charge that is difficult to remove or a high initial price.
A few months ago, a…
