Consumer Alert: Attorney General Cameron Warns Kentuckians of Scams Related to Baby Formula Shortage

Report Scams to ag.ky.gov/scams

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Attorney General Daniel Cameron issued a consumer alert on Wednesday, warning Kentuckians about the appearance of new scams that are related to the current nationwide baby formula shortage.

“Makenze and I would do anything to ensure our four-month-old son is cared for, and we understand the stress that the nationwide formula shortage is placing on parents and caregivers,” Cameron said.  “Scammers often attempt to take advantage of those in stressful situations, and right now that can include Kentuckians who are desperately trying to find formula for their babies.”

His office says baby formula scammers may use ploys similar to those used by online purchase scammers. In these schemes, scammers pose as legitimate online sellers and claim to sell scarce products, like baby formula. The items may be sold at prices that are too high or too good to be true.

The items are often sold on social media platforms, independent websites, or online vendors like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.  Sellers often require upfront payment for the product or shipping. Payment is usually required through gift cards or online payment platforms. Consumers who are victims of these scams never receive the promised product.

--To avoid becoming a victim of a baby formula scam, the Attorney General’s Office encourages Kentuckians to:

--Purchase baby formula from known, reputable sources and, when possible, use a credit card to make the purchase.

--Avoid paying for infant formula up front, if purchasing from an unknown source.

--Be suspicious of sources advertising infant formula at prices that are too good to be true. If it seems too good to be true, it is likely a scam.

To report baby formula or any other scams, you can contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257, or complete the online scam complaint form at ag.ky.gov/scams