There's one born every minute - but help is at hand

Stuart Corner
Tuesday, 14 February 2006 08:36

IT Policy - Regulation

Eighteen agencies across Australia and New Zealand have joined forces to combat consumer fraud, warning consumers about the scams that affect thousands of Australians every year and cost millions of dollars.

The Australasian Consumer Taskforce has launched a four-week campaign to help people to protect themselves from becoming the next victim. Vince Humphries, acting manager of the ACMA's Codes, Content and Education Branch said: "The taskforce provides an opportunity for consumers to receive consolidated information so that they are well armed against a broad range of potential scams and fraud...The key message from the taskforce to consumers who receive any suspicious looking offers, by email, telephone or mail. is to 'delete it, hang up and destroy it'. Consumers are their own best defence, and should always err on the side of caution."

The Taskforce, chaired by deputy chair of the ACCC, Louise Sylvan, is working on outreach strategies, prevention strategies and research. Consumers who think they have spotted a scam can check the ScamWatch website, www.scamwatch.gov.au which posts information and warnings about scams, or report it on 1300 795 995