THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, OCTObER 11, 2024 Page 11 BBB Reports: False advertising and price gouging are unfair and illegal P eople often find that the cost of high-demand items skyrockets during popular events or emergencies, such as ice storms, severe cold snaps, power outages, hurricanes, floods or other types of disasters. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) often receives reports about the frequency of scams involving sought-after items, such as high prices on gas, water or hotel rooms after a natural disaster or during a popular event. Some states’ Office of the Attorney General have initiated state price-gouging laws, which automatically go into effect during a declared state of emergency to prevent businesses from over-charging customers. “Price gouging” is a term meaning when a seller spikes the prices of goods, services or commodities to a level much higher than is considered reasonable or fair and is considered exploitative, potentially to an unethical extent. The best way to avoid price gouging is to plan ahead, if possible, and have the necessary supplies you need before a disaster. BBB warns businesses to avoid the temptation to raise prices during popular events or a situation like a storm or a pandemic because it may be illegal to do so in certain states and because it erodes marketplace trust. People will remember which businesses took advantage of them. Anyone who suspects price gouging during a declared state of emergency should report it to BBB by filing a complaint, or go to https://www.bbb. org/all/bbbi/adtruth/report-a-bad-ad. Consumers can report these activities to the state Office of the Attorney General. When reporting a price gouging complaint, gather as much information as safely possible and follow these three tips: · Be as specific about the transaction as possible, including the name and address of the business, names of any employees involved and information detailing the spike in pricing. · Gather documentation supporting the price gouging (receipts, photos of products and their advertised pricing, invoices, etc.). · Compare pricing of similar products with other sellers in the area and online. It’s important to note similarities and differences between brands, size/quantity, manufacturers, model numbers and prices. · Check your state’s laws. Price gouging laws vary by state. Consumers should first check their state’s specific regulations to understand if an increase qualifies as price gouging. Some states might have specific thresholds for what constitutes illegal price hikes. · Report to federal agencies. For price gouging related to essential goods during emergencies, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Department of Justice (DOJ) may investigate. Provide the appropriate links. · Spread awareness. Share your experiences on social media (without violating platform terms) to raise awareness. For more information: Report scams to https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker. Learn more about charitable giving after a tragedy at https:// www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/24746-bbb-tip-charitable-giving-after-a-natural-disaster-or-tragedy MENTAL HEALTH | FROM PAGE 5 communities it serves. This marks the fifth consecutive year Blue Cross has sponsored free Bluebikes access in honor of World Mental Health Day, recognizing the critical role physical activity plays in mental wellness. Research from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health underscores the positive link between exercise and mental health, noting that biking can reduce stress levels and boost mood through the release of endorphins. “At Blue Cross, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health, and we’re committed to supporting both,” said Blue Cross’ Vice President of Corporate Citizenship and Public Affairs, Jeff Bellows. “By offering free passes on World Mental Health Day, we hope more people will experience the mental and physical benefits of this incredible system and take advantage of the opportunity to support their wellness in a meaningful way.” Blue Cross has served as Bluebikes’ title sponsor since May 2018 and remains committed to supporting and extending bike sharing in Greater Boston as a safe, sustainable and accessible public transportation option through its partnership with the municipal owners of Bluebikes and Lyft. Since becoming the title sponsor, Blue Cross has helped the system grow significantly – expanding the fleet by 200%, the service area by 225%, and the number of stations by 150%. The introduction of e-bikes last year has further enhanced accessibility and encouraged broader ridership. About Bluebikes Bluebikes is public transportation by bike. Riders can find approximately 500 stations and 5,000 bikes, including e-bikes, across its 13 municipalities. Since 2011, riders have taken more than 25 million trips on Bluebikes. For more information about Bluebikes, visit bluebikes.com. About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Blue Cross (bluecrossma. org) is a community-focused, tax-paying, not-forprofit health plan headquartered in Boston. Blue Cross is committed to showing up for everyone like they’re the only one and guiding its members to the exceptional health care they deserve – affordably, equitably and seamlessly. In keeping with that commitment, Blue Cross is rated among the nation’s best health plans for member satisfaction and quality. Connect with Blue Cross on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
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