Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the resurgence of fraudulent health product marketing targeting the elderly, specifically focusing on the "Apollo Active Peptide" product, which is falsely advertised as a miracle cure for various diseases despite being a basic health supplement with no proven efficacy [6][7][8]. Group 1: Product Misrepresentation - The "Apollo Active Peptide" is marketed as a biological gene product capable of self-healing cells and treating diseases like diabetes and strokes, but it is actually a basic health supplement with only immune regulation functions [6][14]. - The product has been falsely associated with prestigious endorsements and claims, including being used by astronauts, which has been debunked as misleading [9][26]. - Despite the company issuing clarifications and stopping shipments, the product continues to be sold on various platforms, indicating a failure in regulatory enforcement [7][22]. Group 2: Consumer Experiences - Many elderly consumers have reported being misled into purchasing the product, with some spending significant amounts, such as 60,000 yuan for a supply, only to find it ineffective [6][30]. - The marketing tactics employed include private group sessions that restrict access to younger individuals, creating a sense of exclusivity and urgency among older consumers [8][30]. - Consumers face challenges in returning products and obtaining refunds, often due to the lack of contact with sellers and the complexity of the purchasing process [30]. Group 3: Regulatory and Legal Context - The article discusses the historical context of similar fraudulent marketing practices that have been legally prohibited, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement against such tactics [26][27]. - Legal experts suggest that companies may still bear responsibility for misleading advertising if they do not establish proper compliance mechanisms and fail to act against fraudulent claims made by distributors [18][24]. - The ongoing issue of unauthorized online sales and misleading claims highlights the inadequacies in current regulatory frameworks and the need for improved oversight [22][23]. Group 4: Recommendations for Prevention - To prevent such scams, it is recommended that consumers retain evidence of marketing claims and transactions, while companies should implement strict advertising guidelines and compliance checks [31]. - Platforms are urged to adopt proactive measures to screen advertisements for misleading claims, especially those targeting vulnerable populations like the elderly [31]. - Regulatory bodies should conduct targeted campaigns against fraudulent health product marketing and ensure that companies are held accountable for their distributors' actions [31].
“电视神医”专挑老人下手,保健品称能延长寿命10至30年,有药店近一个月卖3000盒
21世纪经济报道·2026-03-16 10:26