Vioxx recall scams and deceptive advertising explode
We continue to get numerous reports of scams and fraudulent business practices targeting Vioxx victims. Since the recall of Vioxx (Ceoxx in some countries), it seems that not only spammers but also all types of other crooks (sadly enough, a very small number of attorneys too) have decided to prey on ordinary folks injured by Vioxx. Here is a partial list of scams that have been reported to us by our readers:
- Deceptive email or SPAM
- Websites that pretend to provide information for Vioxx victims in a search result but are essentially there just to contact a Vioxx attorney/law firm
- Deceptive direct mail
- Aggressive and obnoxious calls from telemarketers (if your phone is not listed in the do-not-call registry)
- Offers to extend cash advances in anticipation of settlements in the future
How to protect yourself from scams and fraud?
- Do not respond to SPAM. You can even complain to the Federal Trade Commission.
- Throw away direct mail if you think that it is deceptive.
- Ask the telemarketers to take your name off their list and then sign up immediately with the do-not-call registry.
- If somebody is pressuring you to take any action (e.g. sign up for a class action lawsuit related to Vioxx) without giving you enough time to research and think, you are probably dealing with a crook. A respected law firm that does business ethically will never force you to do anything until you are not comfortable with your decision.
- Finally, do your research. If a website seems to have been created just to collect your information about Vioxx related lawsuits but does not have detailed information about the lawyers behind it, you must be very careful. Look for those websites that clearly list the name of the law firms/attorneys behind it, their contact information (including a physical location), and a phone number to contact.
Related articles:
Vioxx recall lawsuit cash advances: how do they work and should you get an advance?
