Networking: data-linked defence

Fraud detection systems that seek to identify criminal groups commonly employ data mining and link analysis tools. Imam Hoque of Detica explains how their combined use in conjunction with Social Network Analysis is able to provide a still stronger response.

Imam Hoque is Director, Technology Innovation Group, Detica. He may be reached on tel: +44 (0) 1483 816809; email: imam.hoque@detica.com

In the fight against fraud, many organisations have devoted considerable resources to detecting would-be fraudsters through the more effective use of technology. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing take-up of computer systems that examine transaction data and look for tell-tale patterns for each customer or account that might reveal criminal behaviour. Most of us experience this, for example, when our credit card providers call us to ask whether a recent, unusual transaction or pattern of transactions is genuine.