BBB offers tips for spotting CBD scams

As Cannabidiol (CBD) becomes legal in more US states, more scams are being reported to BBB Scam Tracker. When purchasing products containing CBD, it’s important to be well-informed to avoid scams. BBB Scam Tracker has received dozens of reports of consumers thinking they’re purchasing discounted CBD online, but ending up with hundreds of dollars in charges to their credit cards.

Typically, this scam starts when you see an ad for CBD on social media or in an online search. The alleged company offers new customers a significant discount on CBD gummies. In some cases, the product is endorsed by a celebrity. It sounds like a great opportunity. Unfortunately, if you place an order the scammer will have your credit card number. Victims report being charged for extra bottles or on-going monthly subscriptions that they never agreed to. Other victims report being charged random amounts for products they never received. In addition, cancelling isn’t easy. Consumers report scammers use numerous excuses to avoid issuing refunds. They claim everything from trouble with the computer system to it being outside the cancellation window. Many victims also told Scam Tracker the charges continued even after they canceled their subscription.

The Better Business Bureau offers these tips when purchasing CBD products.

■Research the laws and regulations. The State of Ohio has a Division of Cannabis Control and works with the Department of Agriculture concerning CBD products. It’s legal in the State of Ohio if it contains less than 3% of THC and is derived from the hemp plant.

■Research the company you’re purchasing from. In Ohio, licenses aren’t required to sell CBD products, so it’s important to be diligent in researching the companies you’re purchasing from.

■Know the potential side effects and harm. There are many aspects of CBD that are unknown. Research the Food and Drug Administration’s guidelines and recommendations before purchasing CBD.

■Avoid products claiming they’re “guaranteed” to treat your condition.

■Understand the terms and conditions before signing up for a free trial. If you can’t find the terms and conditions and don’t understand what you’re agreeing to, don’t sign up.

■Pay with a credit card. Credit card companies have protections against fraudulent charges. If you see a payment you didn’t agree to, report it to your credit card company.

■Avoid purchasing items from companies you’re unfamiliar with. Many victims have reported purchasing CBD products online and never receiving them.

The BBB can help as you’re considering purchases. Visit BBB.org for a list of Accredited Businesses in the industry and Business Profiles on CBD companies. You can also learn more about CBD and related scams at bbb.org/all/CBD. If you fall victim to a CBD scam, report it to the BBB Scam Tracker.