Global consumer protection website launched

Consumer protection agencies all over the world are entering a new era of cooperation.

A new web site launched by the International Marketing Supervisory Network (IMSN) enables consumers to report scams from around the globe.

"The ACCC is pleased to be involved in this initiative", Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, said today. "The ACCC has been an active participant in the IMSN for several years and is keen to obtain the best result for consumers.

"This development signals a new level of accountability on e-tailers. They will have to consider their actions more carefully when dealing with overseas consumers. In addition, the ACCC will have direct access to complaints from overseas consumers about Australian on-line businesses".

Econsumer.gov is an IMSN initiative involving consumer protection agencies from 29 countries. In addition to the on-line complaint form, the consumer-accessible site will feature consumer information such as tips for safe shopping online and contacts for participating agencies. The information will be available in English, French, German and Spanish. The new site was unveiled at the recent IMSN meeting in New York.

At a news conference, an ACCC Commissioner, Mr Sitesh Bhojani, said that legitimate businesses trading fairly over the Internet had nothing to fear from regulators using 'econsumer' information.

"However, businesses attempting to deny consumers their rights under legislation will face better equipped enforcement agencies to ensure they trade fairly".

Because complaints will be coming directly from consumers, econsumer.gov will increase efforts to share consumer complaints across international borders. Consumers do not have the same restrictions on their information as do government agencies. Access to complaints data is clearly explained on the site, so that consumers can make informed decisions about whether to contribute.