GOVERNMENT GETS STRICT ON TELEMARKETING FRAUD
By Adnews Staff
The Federal government plans to make amendments to the Competition Act to crack down on telemarketing fraud. Under the legislation, telemarketing would be a criminal offense punishable by a fine or a jail term of up to five years. In addition, stricter disclosure requirements for telemarketers would come into effect and authorities will be able to obtain permission to wire-tap suspected fraud operations. The Canadian Direct Marketing Association welcomes the changes, but says the best defense against direct marketing fraud is an educated and cautious consumer. Corporate members of CDMA comply with a mandatory Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. According to the CDMA, Canadians purchase over $11 billion in goods and services annually through direct response media.