Commission joins forces for International Sweep Day: target sector is health
Published31 Jan 2002
Cyber health scams around the world are under the microscope this week as the Commerce Commission joins forces with 30 other national enforcement agencies worldwide in searching thousands of websites to uncover shonky health claims.
The Commission is taking part in the fourth annual International Marketing Supervision Network Internet Sweep. The targets of this years sweep are websites which offer 'miracle' health products and services, as well as sites promoting legitimate products as if they have properties they do not have. Specific categories targeted included health claims directed to weight loss, HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Arthritis, Folk or traditional treatments and sexual performance.
Consumer and health protection authorities within each country are also involved in the sweep. The Commission is working closely with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Medsafe, which is a business unit of the Ministry of Health.
New Zealand and international results from the sweep should be available within the next month.
Background
The IMSN is a network of consumer protection authorities of 30 countries. Its 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. Exchange of information between authorities also plays a key role in effective investigations and court action where necessary.
Due to the growth of the Internet, cross-border consumer transactions are increasing. This brings challenges for law enforcement. The IMSN is based on action, rather than policy discussion, which is the role of the OECD Committee on Consumer Protection.
IMSN agencies provide the following tips to avoid health fraud:
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is;
Beware of products or treatments that are advertised as a quick and effective cure-all for a wide range of ailments or for an undiagnosed pain;
Be cautious of testimonials claiming amazing results;
Watch out for promoters who use phrases such as "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," and "secret ingredient;" and
Before you purchase, consider consulting your pharmacist, doctor or other health professional.
The 30 IMSN Member Countries are:
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Republic of Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, USA.
Media contact: Director of Fair Trading Act Deb Battell Phone work (04) 498 0908, cellphone 025 208 0841
