5th February 2009 - Euro MPs urge people to take part in 'Scamnesty'

Labour MEPs Richard Corbett and Linda McAvan are urging local people to take part in the Office of Fair Trading's month-long Scamnesty campaign throughout this February by sending in forms, letters and emails they suspect of being scams to the local Trading Standards office.

Richard and Linda have also been playing their part in fighting scams by continuing their battle in the European Parliament against directory scams1 like the European City Guide, who trick people into signing misleading contracts then bully victims into paying.

Linda McAvan said:

“Given that many scams operate across borders, many rules which protect people from them are now agreed at European level. It is really important people know they are protected and they do not lose money if caught out by a scam. If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam report them to Trading Standards and include a copy of the form, letter or email you have received.”

She added:

“Sadly it is often the most vulnerable who are tricked by scams and this month-long campaign intends to raise awareness of them and alert people to the tricks they use. Hopefully this month will help make a real difference.”

Richard Corbett said:

“Directory scams have managed to exist for so long because of a loophole in the law which means businesses which fall victim to the scams are not protected by the Unfair Commercial Practices directive, which protects only consumers. By simply changing the wording of this European law, so that it protects whoever the scam is targeted at rather than just consumers, we can deal a huge blow to these scams.”

You can report a suspected scam online now by clicking here.

To find out more about the Scanmesty programme, and find out which local Trading Standards offices are taking part, click here.