The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) has introduced Connected to Protect, a five-year strategy designed to address member needs and advance the industry’s approach to combating insurance fraud.
The initiative aims to expand both the quantity and quality of data managed by the IFB, open new opportunities for the sector in the UK and internationally, and increase public awareness of insurance fraud.
Connected to Protect comes at a time of heightened expectations from government and regulators, following the signing of the Insurance Fraud Charter, which was developed in line with the UK Economic Crime Strategy. The strategy builds on the IFB’s previous Forward Together 2023-25 plan and outlines objectives for the next five years across three main areas.
The first theme, Stand Together Against Fraud, focuses on creating a more connected counter-fraud ecosystem. The IFB plans to strengthen relationships with government, regulators, and international agencies, enabling greater intelligence and data-sharing.
As part of this, the IFB will lead the development of the first industry-wide counter-fraud strategy, aiming to enhance cross-sector resilience and demonstrate the insurance industry’s efforts to address fraud.
The second theme, Reimagine Data and Intelligence, outlines the delivery of a unified technology platform to consolidate IFB datasets and introduce a fraud investigation case management system. These changes are intended to improve operational efficiency and reduce fraud-related costs.
Members will be encouraged to contribute intelligence to the industry data hub, helping the IFB expand data coverage in areas where it is currently lacking. The IFB also plans to introduce a new mechanism to address data theft on behalf of the industry.
Karl Helgesen, chair of the IFB board, said the strategy will “propel the industry forward so we’re all in the best position to reduce our fraud-related exposure, protect the honest customer and create a positive societal impact.” He said that the IFB will work with members, the wider industry, and new partners to achieve its goals by 2030.
The insurance sector’s approach to fraud prevention is evolving alongside the tactics used by fraudsters. Insurers are now investing in advanced fraud detection systems, including artificial intelligence, to keep pace with increasingly complex schemes.
The IFB’s focus on public education is especially timely, as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has reported a sharp increase in impersonation scams in 2025. Nearly 5,000 incidents have been recorded in the first half of the year, with many targeting older individuals through fraudsters posing as the FCA or other trusted organisations.
Regulatory changes are also shaping the industry’s response to fraud. The new Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF) offence, which came into effect in September, expands corporate liability and requires nearly 25,000 UK businesses to implement effective fraud prevention procedures.
Ursula Jallow (pictured above), director of the IFB, said that the next five years will depend on increased collaboration around intelligence and data.
“We know that the single technology solution is much anticipated as it will result in efficiencies and enhanced insights for our members,” Jallow said.
She noted the importance of intelligence sharing and public engagement, adding that the IFB aims to break down barriers to cross-sector data sharing and encourage more reports to CheatLine to help address insurance fraud.
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