Phoenix, Arizona - Attorney General Mark Brnovich has issued a cease-and-desist letter to Chandler-based Prepper’s Discount, Inc., demanding the company stop advertising merchandise in a manner which deceptively implies it could provide immunity from COVID-19.
The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) alleges that Prepper’s Discount, Inc., recently advertised a product called “Instant Immunity Tablets” in conjunction with “Multiple CoronaVirus (COVID-19) & Gas Masks N95, N100, P95, P100.” The AGO letter states that advertising the “Instant Immunity Tablets” in this way implies the product would assist in the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any product for the prevention or treatment of coronavirus.
(Below is a screenshot of the webpage selling the products)
(Below is an image of an advertisement for the "Instant Immunity Tablets")
Since the AGO notified Prepper’s Discount, Inc., of the cease-and-desist order on Friday (4/3/2020), a disclaimer has been added to its webpage.
“Exploiting consumers’ fears by selling a fake cure or treatment for a pandemic is morally and legally wrong,” said Attorney General Brnovich. “This should serve as a warning to other businesses -- if you deceive the public, especially during a health crisis like this, we will hold you accountable.”
A copy of the cease-and-desist letter.
The AGO maintains an up-to-date COVID-19 webpage dedicated to providing consumers with the latest information on coronavirus-related scams and frauds.