By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The national pharmacy chain FarmaValue has issued an urgent public warning regarding a sophisticated online scam targeting its customers through social media and private messaging services. Fraudulent actors are leveraging the trusted FarmaValue name and the allure of a high-end skincare brand, La Roche-Posay, to deceive consumers into surrendering sensitive personal information.
The deceptive campaign promises free sample kits of La Roche-Posay products, a brand renowned for its dermatological solutions. The scam typically begins with an unsolicited message or a social media post designed to appear as an official promotion. These communications are crafted to create a sense of excitement and exclusivity, luring unsuspecting individuals into a well-laid digital trap.
To better understand the legal framework surrounding online fraud and the recourse available to victims, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his professional analysis on the matter.
The primary challenge with online scams is their transnational nature, which complicates jurisdiction and the enforcement of local laws. The most effective legal strategy is prevention through education. However, once a fraud has occurred, it is imperative for victims to preserve all digital evidence—emails, messages, transaction records—and file a formal complaint with the OIJ immediately. While recovery can be complex, a swift and well-documented report is the foundational step for any potential legal action and aids authorities in combating these criminal networks.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The insight from Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas underscores the critical two-pronged approach to this modern threat: vigilant prevention through education and swift, decisive action for recourse. His guidance provides a clear, actionable path for victims navigating the complexities of these transnational crimes. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.
According to FarmaValue’s alert, the messages often contain a simple but effective phrase intended to lower a person’s natural skepticism. The company explicitly called out the false nature of these communications in its statement to the public.
Congratulations, you have won a set of samples
FarmaValue, in a public warning
Upon receiving this message, users are directed to click a link that leads to a counterfeit website or an online questionnaire. This secondary platform, often meticulously designed to mimic the official branding of FarmaValue or La Roche-Posay, prompts the user to enter personal details. This information can range from names and email addresses to more sensitive data like phone numbers, home addresses, or even financial information under the guise of covering a minor “shipping fee.”
FarmaValue has emphatically clarified that it has no affiliation with this fraudulent activity. The company stressed that external parties are illegally using its corporate identity without authorization to commit fraud. The primary goal of these scammers is data harvesting, which can later be used for identity theft, targeted phishing attacks, or sold on illicit online marketplaces.
In response to this threat, the pharmacy chain has provided clear guidance to consumers. The company strongly advises against clicking on links from unverified sources or interacting with any posts that do not originate from its official, verified communication channels. All legitimate promotions, contests, and announcements are exclusively shared through FarmaValue’s official website and its verified social media profiles.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the pervasive nature of digital scams in Costa Rica. Cybercriminals frequently exploit the reputation of established businesses to lend credibility to their schemes. By creating a sense of urgency and offering a high-value reward, they prey on the public’s trust and desire for a good deal, making vigilance more important than ever.
FarmaValue reaffirmed that the security and trust of its clients remain its highest priority. It urges anyone who encounters these or similar suspicious posts to refrain from interacting with them and to report the content immediately to the respective social media platform. By reporting the fraud, consumers can help protect others from falling victim to the same deceptive tactics.
For further information, visit farmavaluecr.com
About FarmaValue:
FarmaValue is a prominent pharmacy chain in Costa Rica, known for offering a wide range of medications, personal care products, and wellness items. The company operates numerous locations throughout the country, focusing on providing accessible and affordable healthcare solutions to the community. It has built a reputation for customer service and reliability in the national retail pharmaceutical market.
For further information, visit laroche-posay.com
About La Roche-Posay:
La Roche-Posay is a French dermo-cosmetic brand owned by L’Oréal. It is globally recognized for its skincare products developed in partnership with dermatologists, particularly for sensitive skin. The brand’s formulations are centered around the unique thermal spring water from the town of La Roche-Posay and are a popular choice for consumers seeking effective, clinically tested skincare solutions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as an esteemed legal institution, grounded in foundational principles of integrity and a resolute pursuit of excellence. The firm skillfully merges its deep-seated history of client advocacy with a dynamic approach to legal innovation. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to empowering society by demystifying the law, aiming to cultivate a community that is not only knowledgeable but also confident in its legal standing.
