Diabetes Canada is raising the alarm on a dangerous surge in misleading ads, fake endorsements, and AI-generated videos spreading false claims about diabetes products and treatments across social media. These online diabetes scamsare targeting people living with diabetes, putting their health—and lives—at serious risk.
❗ The Rise of Fake Diabetes Products Online
So far this year, Diabetes Canada has received over 300 reports from people who encountered or purchased fake diabetes products online. These include:
- Smartwatches that falsely claim to non-invasively monitor blood glucose levels
- Oral GLP-1 drops marketed as miracle cures for blood sugar control and weight loss
- Bracelets and supplements promoted using deepfake videos or stolen logos
These scams are not just misleading—they’re dangerous.
🚫 Counterfeit Diabetes Devices Are a Serious Health Risk
Diabetes is a complex chronic condition that requires accurate and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. Reliable tools like:
- Blood glucose meters (using finger pricks)
- Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) (using under-the-skin sensors)
…help people avoid dangerous highs or lows that can lead to medical emergencies.
But fake diabetes devices—which are not approved by Health Canada—may give inaccurate readings or none at all, putting users at risk of severe complications.
🧠 How AI Deepfakes Are Fueling the Problem
Scammers are increasingly using AI-generated videos to trick people into believing bogus diabetes cures are real. These deepfakes often:
- Impersonate celebrities like Tom Hanks
- Fabricate health expert endorsements
- Misuse logos from Diabetes Canada, Health Canada, or other reputable organizations
Last year, Diabetes Victoria and Diabetes UK issued similar warnings about fake ads using AI videos and fraudulent claims to push unapproved diabetes supplements.
📉 Misinformation Is Spreading Faster Than Ever
Despite Health Canada issuing alerts, social media platforms remain flooded with misleading ads. In just one recent sweep, Diabetes Canada flagged nearly 30 fake diabetes ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
But for every ad removed, another appears—often targeting vulnerable people searching for easier ways to manage their diabetes.
🛑 What You Can Do to Stay Safe
If you or someone you love is living with diabetes, it’s critical to stay informed and cautious. Here’s how to protect yourself:
✅ Be skeptical of ads promising a “diabetes cure” or “miracle treatment”
✅ Avoid products not approved by Health Canada
✅ Look out for deepfakes or misused logos
✅ Never change your medication or treatment without consulting a healthcare provider
✅ Report misleading ads to the platform and relevant authorities
Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
🗣️ Final Thoughts from Diabetes Canada
As someone living with type 2 diabetes, I understand the hope people feel when they see new treatment options online. But scams that promote fake diabetes products don’t just cost money—they can cost lives.
We urge all Canadians to be cautious, ask questions, and trust only verified medical advice when it comes to managing diabetes.
Let’s work together to stop the spread of misinformation and keep our community safe.