Scammers are now claiming to sell H1N1 cures through online advertising, state Attorney General Lisa Madigan said today.

Madigan said the federal government warned distributors and promoters of more than 140 fradulent products. Those include counterfeit presciption drugs, false food supplements, magic shampoos, facemasks, sprays and machines claiming to boost one's immunity.

“We’ve learned from federal officials that online scams related to the H1N1 virus are on the rise,” Madigan said. “I strongly urge consumers to steer clear of these fraudulent promotions and sales pitches and instead consult their doctor.”

Madigan said scammers are also claiming to sell Tamiflu, one of two medicines approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat H1N1. The FDA warns it has tested counterfeit products that contain none of the active ingredients in Tamiflu.

For more information on the H1N1 virus, visit the FDA's website.

If you believe you've been scammed, visit the Illinois Attorney General's Fraud Hotline or call one of the following numbers:

Chicago 1-800-386-5438
Springfield 1-800-243-0618
Carbondale 1-800-243-0607
Spanish-language Hotline: 1-866-310-8398