Trading Standards officers were today threatening swifter action against rogue computer outfits, after being handed fresh powers.

The move involves the Stop Now orders, which will let companies be taken to county court instead of to magistrates' court.

Trading Standards said the move to a civil process would speed up action against companies engaging in practices covered by 11 EU consumer directives, including unfair contract terms and misleading advertising.

Refusal to comply with an order to stop the activity could result in a fine or imprisonment.

The law also gives Trading Standards powers against traders based in European countries outside the UK. ®