Payment card fraud has become an increasing criminal phenomenon in Europe. This serious international crime, which can only be tackled successfully by close cooperation between the relevant law enforcement authorities and by coordination and centralisation of all information at European level, has focused the International Conference on Payment Card Fraud held in  Szczytno (Poland).

The International Conference on Payment Card Fraud, which took place in Szczytno, Poland, between May 13th and 15th 2009, aimed at presenting possible ways of international cooperation and to discuss trends, threats and possible security measures. The seminar organised by the Higher Police Academy in Poland, VISA Europe and Europol, gathered more than 160 participants from 15 countries took part in the event.

Officers from various law enforcement agencies gave presentations of successfully concluded cases on payment card fraud. Europol explained its roles and responsibilities, offered its support and indicated examples of good practice. Europol’s coordination role as well as its support within Joint Investigation Teams was also emphasized.

Representatives of card issuers, such as VISA Europe, MasterCard, and Diner’s Club, participated in the conference and presented examples of new trends and future threats. The participation of the European ATM Security Team enriched the discussions related to ATM Fraud and possible countermeasures.

The conference concluded to recommend a fast exchange of information through Europol channels as well as the use of new legal tools like Joint Investigation Teams.