The new forum, previously known as the CardAlert Fraud Forum, originally launched in 2002.

From counterfeit ATM cards and credit card fraud to 'phish ing' scams to consumer data theft, financial crimes have become highly inventive, and the perpetrators better organized. Fair Isaac created the Fraud Alert Network Forum to help financial institutions and law enforcement officials counter these trends through collaboration. It provides a secure environment in which members can discuss specific criminal attacks with the intent of learning from their peers how they manage similar incidents. Members can also alert each other to emerging fraud trends and share ways to mitigate losses.

"Financial institutions generally don't discuss their inner workings with competitors, but in the case of fraud and crime, communication and collaboration are invaluable," said Doug Clare, vice president, Fraud Solutions Product Management, Fair Isaac. "We see members of the Fraud Alert Network posting comments like 'I have been through this and here's how to fix it.' The level of dialogue is refreshing, and absolutely necessary in the face of mounting fraud activity."

The Fraud Alert Network Forum requires registration. Fair Isaac submits every applicant to a validation process to authenticate their identity prior to granting access. Membership is free for banking, credit union and law enforcement professionals.