Remember, anyone can use a platform's "self-serve" advertising platform to pay for an ad. Advertisers can promote a non-existent company... or pretend to be a reputable brand.
If you're interested in a product you see online, do your homework before entering your credit card information.
Be sure to search the names of any companies you don't already know.
And if it looks like a brand you're familiar with, always double-check the ad's link takes you to an official website... and not a lookalike page.
Take a look at more stories and videos by 7 On Your Side.
7OYS's consumer hotline is a free consumer mediation service for those in the San Francisco Bay Area. We assist individuals with consumer-related issues; we cannot assist on cases between businesses, or cases involving family law, criminal matters, landlord/tenant disputes, labor issues, or medical issues. Please review our FAQ here. As a part of our process in assisting you, it is necessary that we contact the company / agency you are writing about. If we believe we can be of assistance, we will reach back out in response.