Oregon Department of Justice Reaches Settlement With Businesses That Price-Gouged and Claimed Silk Socks Could Prevent COVID-19

Plaid Pantry paid out $21,500 after the DOJ said it price-gouged packs of face masks.

Plaid Pantry. (Brian Burk)

The Oregon Department of Justice announced Nov. 17 it had agreed to monetary settlements with four local businesses accused of price gouging and scams during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The settlements ranged from $12,500 to $21,500, with the largest amount paid by the convenience store chain Plaid Pantry for selling 9,000 four-packs of face masks marked up to "unconscionably excessive prices."

The DOJ also reached settlements with two businesses that made unfounded product claims related to COVID-19, including a company called Live Your Colour Inc., which claimed its silk socks could protect against the virus, and a Bend skin care company called Sher Ray that advertised an aromatherapy diffuser blend, "Respiratory Remedy," as a possible cure for COVID-19.

"As Oregonians continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, these actions are a reminder that as your AG, I will not tolerate price gouging and other unconscionable trade practices," Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said Tuesday. (Disclosure: Rosenblum is married to the co-owner of WW's parent company.)

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