Martin Lewis hits out at tech giants over ‘epidemic of scams’
The TelegraphBig Tech companies have been accused of failing to stop an “epidemic of scams” that has caused some victims to consider taking their own lives. Martin Lewis, the founder of consumer advice website MoneySavingExpert, told MPs the proliferation of scam adverts on social media had resulted in some people being defrauded of tens of thousands of pounds. I blame the online platforms who do not deny the oxygen of publicity to those doing the adverts, and of course I blame the criminals themselves.” Mr Lewis was giving evidence to MPs scrutinising the Online Safety Bill, the Government’s flagship legislation for social media companies that will threaten fines for failing to take down illegal or harmful posts. Mr Lewis, along with consumer charities, investment groups and the Financial Conduct Authority have said that scam adverts should be brought under the scope of the new legislation. The consumer campaigner took Facebook to court for defamation after his likeness was used in thousands of scam adverts without his permission, securing a £3m settlement for Citizens’ Advice.
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