Crime blitz

FAIR Trading Comm-issioner Patrick Walker issued a warning this week about the online site Payline, saying anyone encouraged to sign on should contact the Ministry.

Meanwhile the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Comm-ission) launched a 48-hour international sweep of Internet sites in co-operation with up to 70 other agencies from 29 countries to track consumer mal-practice.

“Agencies need to remain vigilant to ensure both consumers and business can engage in e-commerce with confidence,” acting ACCC chairman Rod Shogren said.

The sweep’s focus is consumer protection that has gained international acceptance in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

The sweep results will be collated and used to educate businesses about the best practice in the on-line environment and to educate consumers.