This area of crime investigation concerns working with insurance companies, investigation firms, or working as a freelance insurance consultant. Fraud Investigators probe potential cases of insurance fraud, including arson for profit and claims fraud. They gather evidence and make recommendations about deterrence measures to stop or minimize the possibility of fraudulent claims.
A key duty is reporting findings to staff attorneys, who subsequently take legal action to redeem losses incurred by suspicious claims. Personal references and backgrounds must be checked to expose fraudulent insurance claims, often by using video surveillance, reviewing financial records, and analysing accident scene reports.
While there is no specific university major recommended to prepare for such a career, several schools offer full-time courses that focus on insurance law. University courses in economics, finance, and business are helpful, though a degree in virtually any field is sufficient. Most insurance companies offer their own training courses for new employees to acquire the necessary skills.
The average salary in the UK is £23,075. Salaries increase with experience and special skills (i.e. computer crime investigation where insurance fraud is involved).
Benefits usually include health and life insurance, company-sponsored retirement plans, and access to a company car.