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Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Third Session (51-3)
2009-09-22 Daily Xml
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INTERNET SWEEP DAY

The Hon. B.V. FINNIGAN (15:11): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Consumer Affairs a question about internet-based scams and efforts by fair trading agencies to protect consumers.

Leave granted.

The Hon. B.V. FINNIGAN: The Internet Sweep Day is an annual initiative of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network. Australia's involvement is coordinated by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, with regular participation by South Australia's Office of Consumer and Business Affairs. Will the minister advise the council about the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs' participation in a worldwide sweep of the internet to uncover scams and bogus websites?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy) (15:12): I can inform members that, today, consumer affairs agencies from over 20 countries are participating in a coordinated blitz of the internet to expose bogus operations and websites that promote what can be considered 'too good to be true' offers. Australia's involvement is being organised and coordinated through the ACCC, with staff from South Australia's Office of Consumer and Business Affairs working with the ACCC to particularly target sites that promote employment opportunities, health claims and so-called miracle cures.

I am sure we are all well aware that during these challenging economic times it is very easy for consumers to be vulnerable to offers of great things and tremendous offers that are too good to be true, particularly those who have a limited income because they have lost their job or those who are vulnerable to unscrupulous scam artists. Also, we know that people suffering illness are often looking for a quick cure or some form of assistance if they believe their circumstances are pretty hopeless and they have tried everything. They can be vulnerable to promises that cannot be fulfilled. So, today's coordinated effort, with OCBA playing a significant role, is directed at not only catching the scammers but also raising community awareness that, when something sounds too good to be true, beware because it probably is.

The sorts of things that we are advising consumers about to avoid being caught include the following: avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails (including those that appear to relate to major financial issues or major social events); avoid promises of instant wealth, incredible discounts and bargains, and also be wary of free gift offers; and beware of products or treatments that are advertised as a quick and effective cure-all. Also, we advise people to read all of the terms and conditions and fine print—and I know that can be challenging.

We also advise people to be wary of testimonials claiming to be outstanding, remarkable results. If in doubt, seek professional advice; and also do not be afraid to research the business; for instance, do a search online or go to an agency that might have some information about that particular business or product and double-check it that way. Consumers also need to be wary, as I said, particularly of the miracle health cures and such like.

I encourage the public to report any apparent scams, particularly those relating to dubious health and employment offers, to the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs. Obviously this government remains committed to exposing scammers and educating South Australians to be wary and also to take precautions while shopping or searching particularly for employment online.

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