Fraud Friends Recognized Online

Release Date: January 22, 2004
Contact: 202-835-3323, media@nclnet.org

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Consumers League (NCL) announced today the launch of a new form of recognition at its popular Fraud.org Web site for companies and organizations that demonstrate their commitment to the fight against telemarketing and Internet fraud by providing financial support for NCL’s National Fraud Information Center and Internet Fraud Watch (NFIC/IFW) programs. Visitors to the NFIC/IFW homepage will notice that major sponsors, dubbed Friends of Fraud.org, appear prominently on the site. Fraud.org provides tips about how to detect and avoid telemarketing and Internet scams and offers special sections about fraud against both seniors and businesses. An online complaint form enables victims to report suspected telemarketing and Internet fraud. That information is transmitted to the appropriate local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

“Friends of Fraud.org is designed to thank current sponsors for their support and encourage the development of new relationships,” said Susan Grant, director of NFIC/IFW. “Companies and organizations that appreciate the help we provide to millions of consumers every year deserve to be applauded.”

Initial Friends of Fraud.org include AT&T, American Express, and Microsoft. The companies’ logos and links to consumer-friendly Web pages on their own sites are accessible now at Fraud.org.

“Safeguarding the privacy and security of our customers is a top priority at American Express,” said Laurel Kamen, vice president of consumer affairs at American Express. “We have partnered with the National Consumers League for many years, and we commend the organization for its long-time leadership in helping protect consumers against fraud. We are pleased to continue our work together today through our support of the National Fraud Information Center, an important initiative that will help educate consumers about fraud and provide assistance to potential victims.”

“Microsoft is pleased to support the National Fraud Information Center/Internet Fraud Watch's work to protect consumers' computing and online experience,” said Frank Torres, director of consumer affairs at Microsoft. “NFIC/IFW is to be commended for its leadership and efforts to help keep the Internet safe by providing practical tools consumers can use to avoid becoming victims of fraud.”

“AT&T is proud of its long-term support of the National Fraud Information Center/Internet Fraud Watch,” said Roberto Cruz, director of AT&T’s consumer affairs and media relations. “We applaud the NFIC/IFW for its ongoing efforts to protect the rights of consumers by providing them with valuable and educational information that will prevent them from becoming victims of fraud either via the Internet or through unscrupulous telemarketers.”

To learn more about the sponsorship program, click on the sheriff’s badge at the site, or visit www.fraud.org/friends/sponsors.htm. Those interested in learning how to become a Friend of Fraud.org can contact NCL’s Vice President for Development Larry Bostian at larryb@nclnet.org or 202-835-3323.

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The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer organization. Our mission is to identify, protect, represent, and advance the economic and social interests of consumers and workers. NCL is a private, nonprofit membership organization. For more information, visit www.nclnet.org.

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