Press Releases
Euro MP celebrates victory over directory scams
Labour MEP Stephen Hughes has warned directory scams such as the European City Guide that they face a clampdown following the adoption of a report calling for them to be outlawed.
The directory scams, which target businesses, voluntary groups, sports clubs and even churches, operate by appearing to offer a free listing when in reality the true cost, hidden in the small print, is almost £900 for a so-called advertisement. The 'contract' is almost impossible to cancel and victims are aggressively pursued by the companies and their related debt collection agencies.
Stephen said: "Over the years these scams have made millions of pounds and have bullied thousands of people all over Europe. This report will hopefully offer some small consolation to the victims but is a big step forward in working to eradicate the scams. It is now up to the European Commission to ensure every EU country takes these scams to task and follows the example of Austria who has outlawed the practices used by the likes of European City Guide, Construct Data, NovaChannel AG and many more."
"It's been a long battle to get the issue acknowledged at European level and I know the scams will not give up easily but today's vote sends out a clear message to the scams: the way you operate is unacceptable and illegal. We must now make sure these scams are shut down across Europe whenever they pop up."
At one of the report's hearings, the European City Guide admitted they send out as many as six million forms annually.
Stephen added: "Anyone who has mistakenly signed one of these forms should explain they have been misled and refuse to pay. If you receive a form from a directory scam through the post the best thing to do is bin it!"
Ends.
For further information please call Cyndi Beaver on 07764198400
Stephen S Hughes MEP
Room 4/38
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UR
Tel: 0191 3849371
Fax: 0191 3846100