Sandra Bullock and Ellen DeGeneres are taking legal action against websites that are using their likenesses without their permission.
The “Bird Box” actress, 55, and daytime talk show host, 61, both filed lawsuits in the Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday against John Does 1 through 100 because it’s unknown who is behind alleged fraud, according to the New York Times. Both stars claim the websites have been spreading false endorsements, with fake advertisements that include the pair promoting anti-aging skincare and other beauty products.
“The celebrity endorsement-theft business model is based on a scheme to trick consumers into disclosing their credit card and/or debit card information in order to enroll them in costly programs with undisclosed, or poorly disclosed, recurring charges,” Bullock and Degeneres said in the complaint, obtained by the outlet.
Ads for the products “typically include unsubstantiated claims that the products will lead to dramatic results,” they added.
One ad, Bullock claimed, took a real photo of her appearing on the “Today” show to promote a movie but was doctored to become an endorsement for her “new skin care line.” (Bullock has never had a skincare line.)
They are seeking an injunction to block further advertisements and financial damages.