Last updated: May 2026
Melan LLC has been made aware that unauthorized individuals and entities are fraudulently using the Melan name, logo, and brand to solicit fees, personal information, or financial details from researchers, corporations, and other parties. This page is intended to help you identify and avoid these scams.
How to identify a legitimate Melan communication
All legitimate Melan communications will:
- Originate from an email address ending in @themelan.com/
- Be sent by a named individual whose identity you can verify on our website or through professional networks
- Never request payment of any kind from researchers or academic institutions
- Never ask for sensitive personal information (such as bank account details, passport numbers, or social security numbers) via email
- Never use free email services (such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook) to conduct business
Common scam tactics
Fraudulent actors have been known to:
- Send unsolicited emails offering research grants, partnership opportunities, or consulting positions in exchange for an upfront fee
- Create fake websites or social media profiles that mimic Melan’s branding
- Conduct fake interviews via messaging apps or email, followed by a request for payment for “processing” or “registration”
- Use forged offer letters or agreements bearing the Melan name or logo
- Request personal banking information under the guise of reimbursing travel expenses or making research payments
What to do if you suspect a scam
If you receive a communication that claims to be from Melan but seems suspicious:
- Do not respond to the email or message
- Do not click any links or open any attachments
- Do not send money or provide personal information
- Forward the suspicious email to us at [email protected] for verification
Reporting fraud
If you believe you have been the victim of a scam involving the Melan name, we encourage you to report it to:
- Your local law enforcement agency
- The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov
Melan LLC takes these matters seriously and cooperates with law enforcement to address fraudulent use of our brand. We are committed to protecting the researchers, corporations, and individuals who interact with us.
Contact us
If you have any questions or concerns about the authenticity of a communication purporting to be from Melan, please contact us directly at [email protected].
