Abstract

This chapter examines the most common types and styles of fraud recorded by Action Fraud, detailing both volume fraud and the more complex fraud types. There are many different types and categories of fraud; the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) records 56 types (as of July 2016). It is important for the investigator to understand the fraud typology, as this assists in the investigation, by aiding understanding of the method used by the fraudster to perpetrate the fraud and by indicating where material relevant to the case may typically be located. The chapter also explains identity theft, which is a key enabler to fraud. It describes how it occurs, the prevention advice to be given, and who can assist in the investigation of this crime. Other frauds include financial investments fraud, Ponzi schemes, government agency scams, and mortgage fraud.