More than 3200 Australian internet sites have been scrutinised over three days during the International Internet Sweep, part of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's crackdown on internet scams that are 'Too Good to be True'.
This week, the ACCC led consumer protection agencies from 24 countries scouring the internet to uncover shonky websites which mislead consumers.
The ACCC examined Australian websites which made claims which appear 'Too Good to be True'.
"The ACCC was looking for sites such as those making misleading health claims or which promised consumers they could make thousands of dollars worth of income a week with minimum work", ACCC Deputy Chair, Ms Louise Sylvan, said today.
The ACCC is now evaluating the suspect sites and conducting further investigations.
"We will be putting traders on notice about misleading statements on their websites and will take enforcement action where necessary", Ms Sylvan said.
The Sweep was a great success, with domestic participation by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission, Department of Treasury, and the following state and territory fair trading agencies: Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, and Northern Territory.
Also taking part in the International Internet Sweep are members of ICPEN*, a network of consumer protection authorities in 31 countries. ICPEN's main objective is to take action to prevent and redress deceptive marketing practices with an international component. The network fosters cooperative efforts by member authorities to tackle consumer problems connected with cross-border transactions in both goods and services.
Remember, if it looks to good to be true, it probably is. Here are some tips to avoid getting caught:
- avoid promises of instant wealth, 'free' gifts, incredible discounts and bargains;
- read all the terms and conditions and fine print;
- be very wary of testimonials claiming astounding results;
- ask around, get professional advice; and
- research the business: do an internet search on the name of the product/company, verify any contact and company details.
*International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (previously IMSN).