[LINK] Fwd: MR131/2011: The ACMA targets computer virus telemarketers [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]

[Antony Barry]

Begin forwarded message:

> From: media at acma.gov.au
> Date: 24 March 2011 12:33:51 PM AEDT
> To: <tony at tony-barry.emu.id.au>
> Subject: MR131/2011: The ACMA targets computer virus telemarketers [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
> Reply-To: media at acma.gov.au
> 
> 24 March 2011
> 
> The ACMA targets computer virus telemarketers 
> 
> The Australian Communications and Media Authority is ramping up its fight against computer virus telemarketers who try to convince a consumer that their computer has a virus they can remove for a fee. 
> 
> ‘In the first three months of 2011, nearly half of all complaints about telemarketing calls made to numbers on the Do Not Call Register have been about these types of calls,’ said ACMA Chairman, Chris Chapman. ‘The ACMA understands that while some businesses offer a legitimate virus prevention or removal service, many are falsely claiming to be related to reputable companies, such as Microsoft.’ 
> 
> To stop consumers from receiving these calls, the ACMA has begun a targeted compliance campaign aimed at businesses that offer online virus removal and technical support. 
> 
> The compliance initiative includes formal investigations into four separate computer virus companies. In addition, the ACMA is: 
> 
> -working closely with Voice over Internet Protocol providers to identify rogue telemarketers 
> 
> -cooperating with international regulators on developing strategies to tackle this global problem 
> 
> -working closely with the ACCC as some of these businesses may be contravening consumer law.
> 
> ‘Australian consumers have had enough, so we’re telling these telemarketers, 'Do Not Call,'’ Mr Chapman said. ‘Telemarketers that are investigated by the ACMA run the risk of incurring penalties of up to $110,000 per day.’ 
> 
> The Do Not Call Register is a free Federal Government service where Australians can register their numbers to opt out of telemarketing calls and marketing faxes. To register call 1300 792 958 or visit www.donotcall.gov.au. 
> 
> More information about this telemarketing scam is available at: www.acma.gov.au/pcvirustelemarketingscam. 
> 
> You can report a scam to the ACCC’s SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. The ACCC also recently released an alert about this telemarketing scam. 
> 
> For more information or to arrange an interview please contact: Emma Rossi, Media Manager, on (02) 9334 7719, 0434 652 063 or media at acma.gov.au. 
> 
> # # # 
> 
> The ACMA is Australia’s regulator for broadcasting, the internet, radiocommunications and telecommunications. The ACMA’s strategic intent is to make communications and media work in Australia’s public interest. For more information: www.acma.gov.au. 
> 
> 
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