The Cutting Edge: COMPUTING / TECHNOLOGY / INNOVATION : Internet Fraud Database Unveiled

The National Consumers League said Tuesday it has teamed up with state and federal authorities in the first effort of its kind to combat fraud on the Internet.

The league is launching a database that will transmit directly to the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general reports of consumer fraud perpetrated on computer online services and the Internet.

Consumers can reach the organization’s new “Internet Fraud Program” through a computer or over the phone. The number is (800) 876-7060. The e-mail address is nfic@internetmci.com. The address for the home page on the World Wide Web is https:// www.fraud.org

Faced with the new territory of cyberspace, authorities are struggling to crack down on bogus get-rich-quick schemes, weight-loss miracles, AIDS cures, credit-repair programs, investment scams and gambling.

The scams typically are the same type now pitched by fraudulent telemarketers.

“Con artists don’t care whether they use the telephone or the computer. They just want your money,” said Linda Golodner, president of the consumer organization.

The group said a quick check of cyberspace in the last week found about 500 get-rich-quick schemes, Ponzi schemes and sweepstake offers.