Illegal advertising claims Orthoback Vibrastone, Claria hearing aid & ReNerv3D: How the Chinese rip-off mafia is fleecing German consumers out of millions of euros in online business – 3,650 complaints about health products

By Evangelist Tax

September 13, 2025

The promise: Pain-free living

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Particular emphasis is placed on the Orthoback Vibrastone, a massage device that is said to regenerate nerves and improve blood circulation. The Claria CIC hearing aid is also offered, advertised as an invisible hearing aid, as well as the ReNerv3D EMS device, which is said to eliminate nerve pain and numbness through electrical stimulation. Other products include Venopulse for blood circulation in the legs, Neuro-Gel and Vita-Gel, which are advertised as supporting nerve function, UV light therapy for nail fungus, orthopedic slippers or “sliders”, various knee bandages, and an Omassager device with massage gel.

The target audience for these promises is primarily older people with chronic conditions. For lawyers, however, these claims are highly problematic. According to the German Heilmittelwerbegesetz (HWG) (Therapeutic Products Advertising Act), healing promises are only permissible if they are scientifically proven. Orthoback cannot provide such evidence, and Stiftung Warentest has not tested any of these products.

Figures that say it all

The discrepancy between promise and reality is clearly evident on Trustpilot, one of the world's largest review portals. There are currently 7,942 reviews listed for Orthoback, 46 percent of which are negative, corresponding to around 3,650 complaints.

A sample of over 100 negative reports evaluated by NETZ-TRENDS.de highlights the main problems. 21.3 percent of customers report that returns can only be sent to China or Hong Kong, with shipping costs of €21.45, €24.80, or €49. 16.3 percent criticize that they received no response from customer support and no return address. 14.2 percent describe invoices that were issued before delivery. 11.7 percent report dubious collection claims despite disputes or goods that have already been returned. 10.4 percent complain about defective or useless devices. 9.2 percent cite misleading advertising and incorrect cancellation policies. In addition, there are cases of data misuse, unintentional orders, incorrect deliveries, and violations of information obligations.

Complaint clusters at a glance

Rank Complaint Number of mentions Percentage

1 Returns only to China/Hong Kong 51 21.3%

2 No response/no return address 39 16.3%

3 Non-delivery/invoice before delivery 34 14.2%

4 Debt collection by ACCS Germany GmbH 28 11.7%

5 Defective or useless devices 25 10.4%

6 Misleading advertising 22 9.2%

7 Incorrect size/fit 12 5.0%

8 Missing German instructions 10 4.2%

9 Delivery delay 6 2.5%

10 Delivery without order 6 2.5%

11 Incorrect delivery (Neuro-Gel/Vita-Gel) 3 1.3%

12 Unintentional order 3 1.3%

13 Safety risks (pacemaker) 2 0.8%

14 Terms and conditions/cancellation only after purchase 2 0.8%

Total 241 100%

The triangle: China – Germany – Netherlands

The corporate structure behind Orthoback reveals an international triangle that is difficult for consumers to understand.

The operating company, Fair Commerce Limited, is based in Hong Kong. It is officially registered in Kowloon, and its managing director is Lihong Zhang. Returns must be sent exclusively to Shenzhen or Hong Kong. Postage costs of over $20 to almost $50 make returns virtually unreasonable.

In Germany, Orthoback operates with a German bank account. The invoices name Solarisbank AG in Berlin, IBAN DE43 2022 0800 0050 7515 42, account holder Fair Commerce Limited. This gives consumers the impression that it is a German company.

The debt collection agency ACCS Germany GmbH is located in Monheim am Rhein, Rheinpromenade 13, managing director Gerardus Louis Hendrikus Maria Jansen, commercial register Düsseldorf HRB 92911, registered as a debt collection service provider with the Higher Regional Court of Düsseldorf (Ref. 3712E1-6.657). ACCS Germany sends reminders and threatens enforcement. The claims no longer amount to the original €119.90, but are increased to €176.84, €227.03, or even almost €400 with fees and interest.

Payments are not to be made to Solarisbank in Germany, but to ING Bank N.V. in the Netherlands, IBAN NL68 INGB 0674 5711 34. This means that the money ultimately disappears into Dutch accounts.

Millions in potential through debt collection

The debt collection machinery makes the business model particularly lucrative. Based on the approximately 3,650 documented negative cases on Trustpilot, a possible range of earnings can be calculated. With minimum claims of €176.84, the turnover would be €646,486, and with maximum claims of €398.53, it would be €1,455,690. Even if only 10 to 25 percent of those affected actually pay, this would result in six-figure sums in the range of €65,000 to €360,000.

Health claims without scientific basis

Orthoback advertises with statements such as “products that work,” “promotes nerve regeneration,” and “gentle but effective treatment for sensitive areas.” A supposed Dr. Jessica Markussen, allegedly a neuro specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience, is presented as a scientific authority. However, there is no independent evidence to support this. Stiftung Warentest has not tested Vibrastone or any other Orthoback products. The promises are therefore unsubstantiated and, under German law, constitute inadmissible healing promises.

Conclusion: A Chinese-German-Dutch rip-off system

Orthoback is a textbook example of international rip-off structures. Hong Kong provides the legal shell with Fair Commerce Limited. Germany serves as a front via a German bank account and a German collection agency. The Netherlands is the destination of the money flows via ING Bank.

The approximately 3,650 negative reviews on Trustpilot show that these are not isolated cases, but a systematic pattern. Instead of the advertised “pain relief,” consumers can expect returns to China, reminders from Germany, and collection payments to Dutch accounts.

NETZ-TRENDS.de issues a clear warning: Consumers should not order from Orthoback.de under any circumstances.

The justice system must investigate.

Orthoback.de Part 2: Promises of pain relief and thousands of satisfied customers

The advertising claims on the website

Orthoback.de presents itself with bold statements on its own website. The homepage states: "Spring offer: 50% discount on your Vibrastone! The only certified dealer for the revolutionary neuropathy device – worldwide! Already more than 50,000 happy customers.“

The core message is ”Pain relief – products that work.“ Orthoback positions itself as a provider that is ”recommended by experts“ and advertises with ”hundreds of positive reviews."

The Vibrastone as a flagship product

Particular emphasis is placed on the Orthoback® Vibrastone Gua device, which, according to the advertisement, represents “innovative technology for your nerve health.” The text describes symptoms such as tingling, burning, and numbness in the feet and legs, which can allegedly be treated with the device.

The promise is that while conventional therapies “often only combat the symptoms,” the Vibrastone is “the solution.” The text states: “Developed in collaboration with experts, this innovative device combines vibration therapy, heat application, and Gua Sha technique. It aims to promote nerve regeneration and improve blood circulation.”

The recommended use is stated as follows: “With just 15 minutes of daily use, you can reap the benefits of this innovative technology.”

The text also emphasizes that the device is “user-friendly,” works “gently but effectively,” and is suitable for “treating sensitive areas.”

Expert statements and study references

The website cites an alleged Dr. Jessica Markussen as an authority, describing her as a “renowned neuro-specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience.” Her research is said to have “contributed significantly to the development of the Vibrastone Gua.”

Reference is also made to “the latest studies,” which allegedly show that “the combination of vibration, heat, and targeted massage delivers promising results in treatment.” However, no specific study sources are cited.

Other products promising pain relief

In addition to the Vibrastone, Orthoback also advertises compression products:

Orthosocks Pro® – patented medical compression socks, price reduced from $59.90 to $29.90 according to the advertisement.

Orthosocks® Orthopedic Compression Socks – The Original, also reduced from €59.90 to €29.90.

OrthoLeg® Special Compression Stockings, reduced from €79.99 to €39.99.

The website states: “Soothing compression for heel pain, diabetes, and edema.”

The rating figures

The website displays a striking rating image. Judge.me advertises “4.8 stars from over 13,383 reviews.” Added to this is the statement “Pain-free through life!” – accompanied by a reference to this alleged overall rating.

This contrasts with the data on Trustpilot, where there are 7,942 reviews, almost 46% of which are negative – that is, around 3,650 complaints (as of September 2025). The discrepancy between the company's own information and independent reviews is significant.

The legal classification

The website advertises with statements such as “Pain relief – products that work,” “Promotes blood circulation and supports nerve regeneration,” and “Pain-free through life.” Such health claims fall under the German Heilmittelwerbegesetz (HWG) (Therapeutic Products Advertising Act). They are only permissible if they are proven by reliable scientific studies. This is not the case.

To date, however, there has been no test by Stiftung Warentest on Orthoback Vibrastone and no independent clinical study to support the claimed effects. The advertising claims are therefore highly vulnerable to legal challenge.

The insidious role of Google, social media, and fake reviews

Advertising in the middle of the news stream

Orthoback.de succeeds in reaching customers with its products not only via its own website, but also via the channels that people actually trust the most. Paid ads appear on Google for search terms such as “orthopedic shoes,” “hearing aids,” or “neuropathy treatment.” Anyone looking for solutions to pain is directed straight to Orthoback's offerings. These ads often appear at the top of reputable search results—a seal of approval that many users interpret as a recommendation, even though it is paid advertising.

Video spots and short reels run on Facebook and Instagram, showing products such as the Vibrastone or the ReNerv3D in everyday situations. Actors play sufferers who, after a few minutes of use, beam with joy and actively participate in life again. These scenes appear authentic, but are purely marketing ploys. What is particularly insidious is that they appear in users' personal news feeds, embedded between posts from friends or family members, which makes the advertising message seem even more credible.

The strategy of fake reviews

In addition to advertising via search engines and social media, Orthoback's business model also thrives on a second element: fake reviews. The Orthoback website presents 181 reviews with a supposed top rating of 4.8 stars. Judge.me, a review platform, even mentions “more than 13,000 satisfied customers” who have given an average rating of 4.8 stars.

These figures stand in sharp contrast to the 7,942 reviews on Trustpilot, almost half of which are negative. There, consumers report defective products, undelivered goods, return traps, and aggressive debt collection. The extreme discrepancy between self-ratings on the company's website and independent ratings on one of the largest international platforms leads to the conclusion that Orthoback systematically manipulates its online reputation through fake or complacent reviews.

Abuse of trust

The interplay of Google ads, social media campaigns, and fake reviews creates a dangerous cycle. Consumers who are specifically looking for help with pain come across positive headlines, see videos of happy patients, and read five-star reviews. They trust these sources because they assume that search engines and social networks would weed out untrustworthy providers.

In reality, however, these platforms profit financially from every click and every ad placed. The fact that the products come from China, returns must be sent to Hong Kong, and consumers are threatened with reminders and debt collection is not mentioned in the ads or video clips, but only when it is too late.

A global business model

This makes it clear that Orthoback is not acting in isolation, but is part of a larger problem. The mechanisms of online marketing—paid ads on Google, targeted campaigns on Facebook and Instagram, manipulative reviews on Judge.me—act as amplifiers for a rip-off machine. The shop uses the reach and credibility of the largest tech companies to lure consumers into a trap.

The advertising appears reputable, the reviews seem convincing, and social networks spread the messages into everyday life. In the end, consumers pay not only with money, but also with the trust they have placed in search engines, social media, and digital review platforms.

Orthoback.de Part 3: Health promises, returns from China, and Dutch debt collection – a system at the expense of German consumers

What affected customers should do

Anyone who receives an invoice, reminder, or debt collection claim from Orthoback.de or ACCS Germany GmbH should not panic. There are clear legal steps consumers can take to protect themselves.

Objection to the claim

Any claim should be objected to in writing by registered letter with return receipt. The letter should clearly state: “I hereby object to the claim asserted.” It is important to include the date, invoice number, and amount. Without an objection, a court could later assume that the claim is undisputed.

Secure evidence

All documents must be kept: order confirmation, invoices, cancellation notices, return receipts, email correspondence. Witnesses or video recordings when sending returns or letters of objection are helpful, as Orthoback often claims, according to customer reports, that it never received the documents.

Document returns

When returning goods to China, this should only be done with tracking and a receipt. The evidence should be kept safe so that you can prove later that the return was made.

Have inadmissible collection costs checked

ACCS Germany GmbH often charges excessive fees.

Under German law, collection costs are only permissible in the amount of a comparable attorney's fee. Consumer centers and attorneys can check whether the amounts demanded are justified.

No payments abroad without clarification

Claims that are to be transferred to a Dutch account at ING Bank N.V. should not simply be paid. First, check whether a valid contract exists at all. According to EU consumer law (§ 312g BGB, right of withdrawal), a withdrawal from online purchases must be effective even without returning the goods abroad if the goods were never delivered or if the retailer does not provide a return address that is customary in the EU.

Contact the consumer advice center and a lawyer

The consumer advice centers offer standardized sample letters for objecting to unjustified debt collection claims. For larger amounts or if a court order for payment has already been issued, it is essential to consult a lawyer specializing in consumer law.

Ignore threats – but meet deadlines

Collection letters often contain threats of Schufa entries or bailiffs. As long as there is no court order or enforcement order, these threats are legally meaningless. Nevertheless, the following applies: meet deadlines, respond in writing, and secure evidence.

Conclusion: protection through active action

Customers are not without rights. Anyone who carefully documents the claims of Orthoback or ACCS Germany GmbH, objects in a timely manner, and does not make any unauthorized payments can successfully defend themselves against this scam.

Important: Do not remain silent or ignore the matter—take clear, verifiable steps. This will help you defend yourself against many of the scam attempts described above.

Draft defense letter (sample)

Sender (name, address)

To Orthoback.de / Fair Commerce Limited

or

ACCS Germany GmbH

Rheinpromenade 13

40789 Monheim am Rhein

Date: [DD.MM.YYYY]

Subject: Objection to your claim / invoice number [XXX]

Dear Sir or Madam

I hereby expressly and completely object to the claim you have asserted.

There is no valid claim for payment, as the goods were [not delivered / defective / returned]. Furthermore, the return shipment to China that you are demanding is neither reasonable nor compatible with the consumer protection regulations of the European Union.

I would like to point out that, according to §§ 355 ff. BGB (German Civil Code), a valid revocation has already taken place. This means that the contract has been terminated. I am not obliged to make any further payments.

Should you continue to assert claims, I request that you provide me with legally valid evidence that (1) the goods were delivered properly, (2) the revocation was not effective, and (3) the additional costs asserted are permissible under German law.

I reject collection costs, reminder fees, or costs for international transfers. According to established case law of the Federal Court of Justice, collection costs may be set at a maximum of a comparable attorney's fee; unjustified additional claims are not owed.

Please confirm in writing within 14 days that you will not pursue the claim further. Otherwise, I will refer the matter to the consumer advice center and, if necessary, to my lawyer.

Kind regards

[Signature]

Notes on use

The letter should be sent by registered mail with return receipt.

Enclose copies of all documents (order, cancellation, return receipts, collection letters).

Set a deadline of 14 days.

Important: Keep a copy for your own records.

The online shop Orthoback.de, which appears to originate from China – what the imprint really reveals

Visitors to the website Orthoback.de will find an imprint that at first glance is intended to convey seriousness, but on closer inspection reveals a complex construct involving China/Hong Kong, Italy, and Estonia.

Company name and business address in Hong Kong

According to the legal notice, the operating company is Fair Commerce Limited.

CEO: Lihong Zhang

Address: WORKSHOP 60, 3/F, Block A, Hang Pont Commercial Building, 999077 Kowloon, Hong Kong

Email: support@faircommerce-ltd.com

The shop thus clearly indicates that its headquarters are in Hong Kong. This coincides with the return and cancellation information on the invoices and reminders, which also name Hong Kong as the sender.

EU representative in Italy

In order to operate in the EU, Fair Commerce Limited has appointed an authorized representative:

Y&H S.R.L.

Address: Via Gravina 21 MT, Matera, Trani, Puglia, Italy

Such arrangements are typical for companies based outside the EU but required to provide a contact person within the European legal area. An EU representative legally assumes the role of a contact point but is not automatically liable for all transactions.

Registration number and disclaimers

The imprint includes the registration number 76251227, which refers to a company registration in Hong Kong. At the same time, the usual disclaimers are included: no responsibility is taken for external links and all content is protected by copyright.

Payment processing via Estonia

The note at the end of the legal notice is particularly striking:

“All orders will be completed by WITH REACH (EU) LTD OU, our international seller.”

This means that orders from Orthoback.de are processed by a company in Estonia. WITH REACH (EU) LTD OU therefore acts as the contractual partner for European customers.

This creates a triangle:

Hong Kong as the official company headquarters (Fair Commerce Limited, CEO Lihong Zhang)

Italy as the EU representative (Y&H S.R.L.)

Estonia as the payment processor (WITH REACH LTD OU)

Marketing promises vs. reality

On its website, Orthoback is advertised with slogans such as “Pain-free through life.” It claims a rating of 4.8 stars from over 13,000 reviews on Judge.me. This figure is impressive, but stands in stark contrast to the ratings on Trustpilot, where the shop has 7,942 votes, almost half of which are negative.

Classification: Why this structure is problematic

For consumers, this network means:

Legal action is complicated because the company is based in Hong Kong.

Returns must be sent to China/Hong Kong according to the cancellation policy – expensive and impractical.

Payment processing is handled via Estonia, which means that German law only applies to a limited extent.

Debt collection cases end up at ACCS Germany GmbH in Monheim am Rhein, which demands payments to Dutch accounts.

The imprint thus shows that Orthoback is not a German healthcare provider, but an internationally intertwined corporate construct that makes consumer protection and law enforcement considerably more difficult.