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Reporting on fraud, review manipulation, misleading information and the work of protecting consumers and honest businesses.
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Independent research initiative builds on years of consumer protection, investigative work and industry reform. For well over a decade, KwikChex has been at the forefront of protecting timeshare owners from misinformation, misrepresentation and fraud. Working alongside enforcement agencies, regulators, journalists, bro
When consumers choose a business, they often look for signs that the company is trustworthy and legitimate. They may check online reviews, verify contact details, or look for professional accreditations. One area that is frequently overlooked, however, is whether a business holds appropriate insurance cover. For many b
The growing threat posed by fake online stores continues to gain attention across the retail sector. Following Forbes’ recent article highlighting the issue and recognising the work of Chris Emmins and KwikChex, the story has now been picked up by RetailWire, where it is generating wider discussion about what can be do
A recent article by Forbes contributor Catherine Erdly highlights the increasing threat posed by fake online stores and their damaging impact on both consumers and legitimate retailers. The report explains how criminals are using AI and sophisticated digital tools to create highly convincing fake retail websites that s
By Chris Emmins, CEO, KwikChex Last week was one of the most emotional and troubling weeks I have experienced in well over a decade of working with timeshare owners. For years, I have investigated fraud, misrepresentation, and consumer harm. I have worked alongside enforcement agencies, regulators, lawyers, journalists
The BBC consumer affairs programme Rip Off Britain has broadcast an investigation into Seasons Holidays’ fractional ownership products, examining allegations that purchasers were led to believe they were buying products with investment potential and long-term financial value. The programme, broadcast on BBC One on 19 M
Chris Emmins, CEO of KwikChex, will appear in an upcoming episode of the BBC’s flagship consumer programme Rip Off Britain. Chris often works with the Rip Off Britain team and has persuaded them to investigate Seasons. The BBC have confirmed the programme schedule and content in an email to Chris today, see below. “Thi
A year ago In April 2025, KwikChex issued a warning about Central Paralegals. The company had been contacting timeshare owners and persuading them to pay thousands of pounds for purported timeshare termination services. We were initially concerned about the aggressive cold calling methods used by two linked companies,
KwikChex is warning that thousands of consumers are falling into what it describes as “help traps” — services that present themselves as solutions but often inflict further devastating financial harm. Two groups in particular are suffering losses totalling hundreds of millions globally. KwikChex investigations reveal a
Across Europe, timeshare owners are increasingly searching for clarity about compensation claims linked to purchases connected to the UK and Spain. For many, the issue is no longer simply whether claims exist, but why outcomes are taking so long, why some claims quietly stall, and why owners are often told their cases
Clarity is not a “nice to have” in timeshare — it is essential. Timeshare is unlike almost any other consumer product. It typically involves a substantial, long-term financial commitment, often lasting decades or, in some cases, indefinitely. Owners are subject to ongoing fees, contractual obligations, and usage rules,
Update from FRP Advisory regarding the liquidation of Club La Costa (UK) PLC (Background and insights on CLC claims and exits provided by KwikChex) A report has been filed regarding the progress of the liquidation of the timeshare company Club La Costa (UK) PLC. The report can be viewed on the Companies House website v
