A JOINT law enforcement operation targeting online fraudsters had resulted in 95 arrests, including one in Bolton, being made across Europe between June 4 and 15.

The suspects arrested during the operation are believed to be responsible for more than 20,000 fraudulent transactions using credit cards, with an estimated value exceeding £7 million.

The action was coordinated by Europol, working closely with law enforcement, the banking industry and retailers across 28 countries.

Operations in the UK were led by officers from the Dedicated Card and Payment Crime Unit (DCPCU).

Nine search warrants executed in the UK resulted in two arrests – one in Bolton and another in London.

During the searches several devices that were suspected of being used to commit remote purchase fraud were seized and investigations are now underway with further arrests and charges expected.

Several of the fraudsters targeted during the operations were using social media to commit fraud, with criminals offering goods to buyers for a heavily discounted price. The buyers’ card details are then usually stolen and passed on to other fraudsters.

DCI Glyn Whittick, head of the DCPCU, said: “The success of these operations shows how, through close cooperation with our European partners, retailers and the financial sector, we are cracking down on the criminal gangs targeting consumers online.

“Ongoing investigations are now underway and we will continue to work together to bring those committing remote purchase fraud to justice.

“Fraudsters are increasingly targeting people through social media so it’s vital that everyone follows advice and keeps their details safe.

“People should also remember when shopping online that if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.”