The HSBC Malta anti-fraud team has been complimented by Visa Europe for their diligence. As a direct result of their efforts, a number of persons who were recently active in ATM crime have been arrested in Malta. These arrests have been directly connected to cards compromised in other European markets and linked to organised crime in the UK.

In his letter of congratulations to HSBC Bank Malta plc, Visa Europe’s senior fraud control manager, Joe S. Gomez CFE, stated: “At a time when security around payment cards is becoming ever tighter, criminals are constantly looking at new ways to operate and target financial products. HSBC Malta anti-fraud team seems to be only too aware of this and have achieved some outstanding results in dealing with ATM fraudsters.”

The bank’s team has further assisted UK police by facilitating and exchanging information in respect to those arrested. This, in turn, allowed UK police to build a great insight into UK based criminal activity concerning the counterfeiting of payment cards and compromise of payment card data.

“The HSBC Malta anti fraud team did an outstanding job in tracking, identifying and closing down these criminals. However, continued vigilance is key,” said HSBC Malta CEO Shaun Wallis.

Mr Gomez’s letter was accompanied by a certificate of appreciation and a token of appreciation that were forwarded to HSBC Malta anti-fraud team on behalf of Visa Europe Fraud Management.