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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
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Website That 'Tans' Sucks in 1M

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(Newser) – A website that claims to "tan" people as they bask in front of their computer screen has drawn a million duped viewers, reports the Daily Telegraph. The fake infomercial site by a British skin cancer charity directs pasty viewers to a free tanning trial on a web page where they can absorb ultra-violet rays and get that "just-back-from-vacation" look in the office.

When viewers click on the link, they're shown a tanning bed, and are scolded: "Don't be fooled—UV exposure can kill." The warning is followed by graphic shots of skin cancer. The site has been a "phenomenal success," said a charity spokesman. "The infomercial is so well done that quite a lot of people have been taken in by it. It's increased our profile and more importantly, it's raised the profile of skin cancer" dangers.

'Computertan' promises a suntan basking in front of a computer screen.
'Computertan' promises a suntan basking in front of a computer screen.   (©David Farrell)
A web site that promises ultra-violet rays for tanning is run by skin cancer charity warning again ultra-violet rays.
A web site that promises ultra-violet rays for tanning is run by skin cancer charity warning again ultra-violet rays.   (©quaziefoto)
No more pasty looks with 'Computertan.'
No more pasty looks with 'Computertan.'   (©Sarah G...)
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7 comments
VIEWING:
 
NutsInNY
Mar 29, 09 8:14 AM CDT
It's good to avoid "ultra-violent rays"... (Set your monitors on stun.) Reply
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IN RESPONSE:
NutsInNY
Mar 29, 09 11:50 AM CDT
Thanks for correcting the typo, Newswer.
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TerrifiedCitizen
Mar 29, 09 8:36 AM CDT
If you wonder why political campaigns seem so dumbed down sometimes (well, some of us wonder), these people also vote... Reply
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SPH
Mar 29, 09 2:10 PM CDT
Anything truly worth having requires effort, often difficult and sustained effort..... Reply
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ChristaMT
Mar 29, 09 7:40 PM CDT
Admittedly, I would have clicked the link. Even knowing it was BS, I would HAVE to know what was really going on. So not everyone clicking was completely incompetent--although I'm sure most were. Reply
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