In addition, the PCU issues forensic laboratory reports, classifies new counterfeit payment cards, maintains a database of statistics on counterfeit and altered payment card activity, provides expert evidence in criminal courts, and assists Canadian and international police agencies. Basic components of payment cards are analyzed to highlight features that will assist in detecting counterfeit and altered cards. Such components include the plastic substrate, the magnetic stripe, holograms, and the signature panel. Elements that identify a particular payment card are noted, and procedures for the forensic examination of payment cards are described. 6 photographs