The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is distributing over $114,000 to consumers who were misled by claims of "next day shipping" for personal protective equipment (PPE) from the online retailer SuperGoodDeals.com. The FTC's action against the company and its owner, Kevin Lipsitz, dates back to 2020. They were accused of defrauding consumers by falsely advertising rapid shipping on facemasks and other PPE during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beginning in March 2020, SuperGoodDeals.com claimed that PPE was "in stock" and promised "Pay Today, Ships Tomorrow." However, many customers experienced significant delays as masks were not available and shipments took weeks to arrive.
The FTC is issuing checks to 4,583 affected consumers. Recipients are advised to cash their checks within 90 days. For questions regarding payments, consumers can contact Simpluris at 844-804-5352 or visit the FTC’s website for more information about the refund process. The Commission emphasizes that it does not require individuals to pay money or provide account details to receive a refund.
In addition to this case, FTC actions in 2023 resulted in $330 million in refunds distributed nationwide. The agency continues its mission to promote competition while protecting and educating consumers. It assures that it will never demand money or make threats related to refunds or prizes.
For further consumer information, individuals can visit consumer.ftc.gov or report fraudulent activities at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Updates from the FTC are available through social media channels and newsletters.
