2008-04-08 23:38:46 -

- As financial service institutions become more globalized and sophisticated, so do fraudsters. New research from TowerGroup finds that in order to combat the growing levels of existing fraud in the financial services sector, it is essential to treat fraud management as an offensive strategy - as opposed to the reactive process that still leaves many institutions "running hard" to

keep up with fraud within their organizations.

Although many good tools and technologies for fraud detection exist, a truly 'holistic' approach to fraud management remains elusive for many financial institutions. TowerGroup notes that there has been an unfortunate trend toward dividing, departmentalizing, and otherwise separating fraud management from the core businesses of financial services. Detection, alert, and case management practices are too often viewed as separate and discrete activities. All of this is, unfortunately, good news for fraudsters who are increasingly able to exploit gaps and weaknesses in fraud protection and management strategies.

TowerGroup believes an enterprise approach to fraud management has become a definitive requirement in combating fraud - in terms of prevention and successful detection, escalation, and adjudication. TowerGroup estimates that the potential return on the cost of fraud management is as high as $8 returned for each $1 spent. The following exhibit outlines the processes needed in effecting a holistic approach to fraud management:

This chart may be downloaded at: www.towergroup.com/research/content/page.jsp?pageId=3122

Without a continuous cycle of holistic fraud strategy management, institutions are leaving their customers, their bottom lines and their reputations open to existing, emerging - and worse - yet unknown methods of fraud. At the same time, by defaulting to a purely tactical approach, costs increase each time a new threat emerges. Ideally, institutions must foster a culture where vigilance becomes a way of doing business, and stopping fraud becomes an investment and a customer value proposition - instead of just an added cost or responsibility.

The TowerGroup research report, titled "Surrounded by the Enemy: The Case for Enterprise Fraud Management," is authored by Rod Nelsestuen, a senior analyst in the Financial Services Strategies & IT Investments practice.

To request a copy of the research or to arrange an interview with Nelsestuen, please contact Thea Linscott at +1-917-595-3061 or tlinscott@cooperkatz.com. Those interested in subscribing to a TowerGroup research service may call +1.781.292.5200 or email service-info@towergroup.com.

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter, TowerGroup News, to stay informed on the latest research and events. To learn more, visit: ui.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1101074606706&p=oi.

About TowerGroup: TowerGroup is the leading research and advisory services firm focused exclusively on the financial services industry. A respected source for trusted information and advice, TowerGroup brings many of the world's leading financial institutions, technology companies, and professional services firms a deeper understanding of the business and technology issues impacting their organizations. Headquartered near Boston in Needham, Massachusetts, and with offices in North America and Europe, TowerGroup serves a global client base. Visit www.towergroup.com for more information.

For TowerGroup
Thea Linscott, +1-917-595-3061
tlinscott@cooperkatz.com