Issue Date:  -  Friday, 20 February 2004

Project 21

A modern-day version of an envelope-stuffing scheme has reappeared in WA and will rip off unwary job seekers if they fall for the lure of easy money.

"Project 21 and similar rorts have been the subject of previous public warnings", Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

"In 2002 a series of newspaper advertisements in employment sections gave the impression there were jobs available when in reality there was not, he said.

Project 21 promotes a kit in 12 monthly manuals each costing $90.

Essentially the scheme says to place similar ads to the one to which you responded and sell the scheme to others who can then do the same, and so on. The manuals contain sample ads for the purpose of on-selling the concept.

"By promoting the scheme to others you could become guilty of promoting a scheme that; makes false or misleading representations about employment; and false or misleading representations about a home-based business, which could land you a fine of up to $20,000.

"Some good news for victims of this fraud, is that the law allows them to recover their losses from whoever introduced them to the scheme.

"Take extreme care when responding to any employment ad that entices you to pay money to get work", Commissioner Walker said.

Contact Consumer Protection on telephone 1300 30 40 54 if you have seen any promotions for this kind of ‘employment’ offer.