Scammers have reportedly been tricking consumers into paying significant sums through fraudulent online stores. They have been luring “desperate parents and caregivers” via fake social media profiles and websites with images of reputable formula brands. Consumers believe they’re purchasing from a brand’s official website, but the formula never arrives. 

“Scammers exploiting the high demand for baby formula have sunk to new lows,” the FTC writes. “If you suspect a scam, let us know about it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Your reports help the FTC and our law enforcement partners stop scammers.”

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a significant shortage of baby formula across US stores. Current shortages have been largely caused by supply chain issues as well as a recent recall of certain baby formula products over contamination concerns. 

Last week, The White House announced it would make it easier to import baby formula from overseas and would also introduce other measures.