Secret meetings see consumers fleeced of $154,000 Scammer hits lonely hearts in newspaper ads - Gregory John Elliott

Issue Date: - Monday, 10 March 2008

The consumer watchdog is anxious to hear from anyone who may have responded to newspaper advertisements that read ‘secret meetings - morning, afternoon & night time meetings, very discreet’ and invite contact on two mobile phone numbers.

“In WA alone, $26,000 has been paid to Melbourne based scammers and Australia wide more than $154,000 in losses have been uncovered by consumer protection agencies,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

“This could be just the tip of the iceberg and we are appealing to members of the public to contact us to help provide vital information which could see these people prosecuted and put out of business.

“Although vague and ambiguous, these ads are netting people seeking companionship and love. They are being ripped off to the tune of about $200 each,” he said.

Payments are usually made by electronic transfers to bank accounts held by Gregory John Elliott of Somerton in Victoria. He has previously been prosecuted in Victoria for fraudulent activities as an introduction agent and is thought to be operating his recent scam with the assistance of accomplices.

Consumer Protection has detailed information on Mr Elliot’s advertisements, bank accounts, addresses and other personal details but needs formal complaints and information from consumers who have been stung.

“I can assure anyone coming forward that their identity will be protected and any information they provide will be held in the strictest of confidence, as we understand that people are often embarrassed about being scammed while seeking companionship,” Mr. Walker said.

Consumer Protection officers can be contacted on telephone 1300 30 40 54, by emailing consumer@docep.wa.gov.au <mailto:consumer@docep.wa.gov.au> or visiting any Consumer Protection office listed at www.docep.wa.gov.au <http://www.docep.wa.gov.au> .