Commission gathers key European enforcement network and stakeholders to fight online consumer fraud

Today, the Commission is hosting an expert workshop on how to fight emerging trends in consumer fraud online, with public enforcers from the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network, national representatives from the European Consumer Centres (ECC) Network, members of Europol and of national law enforcement authorities. The participants aim to enhance cooperation between enforcement authorities by sharing best practices and expertise on the tools available to detect and combat online consumer fraud, including those powered by AI, and by mapping and monitoring emerging trends to ensure that the fight against fraud and scams is both dynamic and flexible.

Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, said: “Fraud and scams are not only a threat to the European economy, they are also a significant cause of financial and psychological distress for European consumers. Almost half of consumers in the European Union encountered fraud and scams online in 2024. As these fraudulent practices are continually evolving, it is essential for all actors at all levels to cooperate closely to detect and combat fraud and scams.”

Building on discussions during the workshop, the Commission will also explore follow-up actions with the authorities, including how to make better use of existing IT tools to support information sharing between consumer protection and law enforcement authorities about entities engaging in fraudulent practices. Next month, the Commission will publish the 2025 Consumer Conditions Scoreboard, which will provide an overview of consumers’ attitudes, behaviours and experiences in the EU and also include data on fraud and scams. More information on the fight against online fraud can be found here.

Taken together, this international workshop and its follow-up initiatives mark determined steps forward in protecting European consumers by detecting and combating fraudulent practices online.