EU BIDS TO CUT COSTLY SCAMS - WATSON

3.09.16pm GMT Thu 1st Mar 2007

The European Commission yesterday launched an EU-wide crackdown on companies operating cross-border scams. These scams include bogus holiday clubs, international prize draws, miracle health and slimming cures and loans and investment schemes.

Speaking from Brussels, Graham Watson said:

"On an almost weekly basis I am contacted by constituents who have received notification of a lottery 'win' or who have paid out to receive prizes which don't exist. Con artists are using increasingly sophisticated methods to target their victims. The new co-operation between member states will ensure scammers have nowhere to hide."

The clampdown will be co-ordinated by each of the EU's 27 national enforcement bodies. They are to be given cross-border powers to combat criminals defrauding victims in one country but operating in another and their tools include the power to impose inspections, fines, court action and freezing of assets.

British people with a problem regarding a scam should contact their nearest European Consumer Centre, often located within the citizens advice bureau network.