In the throes of the COVID-19 crisis, when masks became as ubiquitous as morning coffee, consumers were looking for not just protection but peace of mind. The Zephyr mask, marketed by Razer as a high-tech, N95-grade “wearable air purifier,” seemed to offer both. However, the reality behind this futuristic facade was far less impressive, leading to a significant financial and reputational blowback for the company.

The mask that wasn’t

In April 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched a crackdown on Razer, along with its affiliates, for selling the Zephyr mask under the guise that it was an N95-grade respirator. The masks, which hit the market in October 2021, were priced at a premium, with options ranging from $99.99 for a single mask with three filter sets to $149.99 for a starter pack containing a mask and 33 filter sets. Additional filters were sold at $29.99 for ten sets.

The allure of these masks wasn’t just their purported protection level but also their cyberpunk aesthetic, complete with RGB lighting, making them not just a health product but a statement piece in the era of face coverings. However, the FTC’s investigation revealed a harsh truth: these masks were never submitted for testing to the FDA or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and thus, never certified as N95-grade.

Statement from the FTC

Samuel Levine, the director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, expressed in a stark statement that the companies involved “falsely claimed, in the midst of a global pandemic, that their face mask was the equivalent of an N95 certified respirator.” He underscored the FTC’s commitment to holding businesses accountable for misleading consumers, especially when choices directly impact health and safety.

Refund

Following the FTC’s action, a settlement was reached where Razer agreed to pay more than $1.1 million. This fund is now being distributed as full refunds to approximately 6,800 consumers who fell for the misleading marketing. Each eligible consumer is receiving around $150, either via check or PayPal payment.

The FTC advises that these refunds should be claimed promptly; checks must be cashed within 90 days, and PayPal payments redeemed within 30 days. For those with queries or issues regarding their refunds, they can reach out to the refund administrator, Simpluris, or visit the FTC’s website for detailed guidance.