Beware of CBD gummy ads exploiting household names to defraud consumers, experts warn

Experts are warning consumers to be wary of online ads that exploit household names to sell cannabidiol (CBD) products. In an online exclusive, CTVNews.ca spoke with some victims who have fallen prey to these schemes.

Early in November, Maureen stumbled upon an ad for CBD gummies on Instagram that appeared to feature the name and image of CTV News Chief Anchor and Senior Editor Lisa LaFlamme.

LaFlamme does not represent nor endorse any CBD products, including gummies, or any other products or services.

“Her name came up and it gave a story,” Maureen, who is 65 years old and lives in Mississauga, Ont., told CTVNews.ca in a phone interview. “It actually said how she was sort of in trouble because CTV wasn’t happy with her doing this kind of stuff.”

Maureen, who asked that her full name not be used, tapped on the ad and was brought to an order page. She initially didn’t go through with the purchase but was then offered a better price of $4.95 for a bottle.