Longevity scams prey on the universal desire to live longer and healthier lives. Common frauds range from miracle supplements to predatory membership models and expensive tests that lack clinical backing. Being aware of the following five common schemes can help you avoid them:

1. Unregulated “Miracle” Supplements

• What it is: Pills, powders, or sprays (such as certain NAD+ boosters or unproven antioxidants) marketed as “anti-aging” breakthroughs. Many are sold online through “free trial” offers that quietly enroll you in expensive, recurring monthly subscriptions.
• How to avoid: The FDA Health Fraud Product Database and the FTC Anti-Aging Products Advisory highlight that no over-the-counter supplement has been proven to reverse the aging process. Always review a company’s auto-ship policies and consult your doctor before starting any supplement.

2. Fake “Biological Age” Tests

• What it is: Direct-to-consumer saliva or blood tests that claim to calculate your “biological age” compared to your calendar age.
• How to avoid: According to experts, there is no universally accepted scientific method for measuring biological age. Avoid paying out-of-pocket for these tests. Instead, focus on established, evidence-based metrics like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar tracked by your primary care physician.

3. Predatory Longevity Clinics

• What it is: Private clinics that offer “elite” anti-aging treatments—such as full-body MRI scans, stem cell therapies, or off-label prescriptions—without proven clinical value.
• How to avoid: Be highly skeptical of any clinic offering expensive prevention protocols that your doctor does not recommend. Always verify that any medical facility is licensed and that the staff are board-certified.

4. Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE)

• What it is: A costly procedure that removes your plasma and replaces it with albumin and saline. It is occasionally marketed to “dilute inflammatory factors” and heavy metals accumulated with age.
• How to avoid: Currently, TPE is an FDA-approved procedure for specific diseases (like autoimmune disorders), but it is not an approved anti-aging treatment. Do not undergo invasive, expensive, or experimental procedures for wellness purposes outside of a controlled clinical trial.

5. Hidden “Auto-Ship” Traps

• What it is: Marketers that offer a “risk-free” or heavily discounted trial product for a minimal shipping fee. By submitting your payment, you inadvertently agree to hidden terms in the fine print that charge your credit card monthly.
• How to avoid: Read the terms and conditions carefully before providing any payment information online. Check online forums and consumer watchdogs for reviews of the company. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it almost always is.