What is our purpose?

The Institute provides direction and assistance to its members in order to advance the provision of high quality professional counter fraud and corruption services. The broader aims of the Institute shall be in accordance with its Key Principles.

Why did we begin?

The Institute of Counter Fraud Specialists was established to provide direction and assistance to members and advance the profession of Counter Fraud Specialist (CFS). It came about when a an increasing number of CFS, linked by a common specialist qualification, came to a growing consensus about how they should work and the standards expected of them and from that the Institute was the next natural step.

There was also a desire from CFS to have something that was a representative body of their own and the Institute is the first and only qualification-based representative organisation run by and for counter fraud professionals. Uniquely, we are backed supported by a wealth of professional counter fraud and corruption experience, our greatest strength is our members.

Why join?

Whilst there are other counter fraud representative organisations, the Institute is the only one that you have to be qualified to join, so first choice for CFS Professionals. Some organisations limit their representation to single issues or only represent employers, whereas we look at counter fraud as a whole and value individual membership because we see our members are our greatest asset.

Can I join?

To join the Institute you need be an Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist or if you work as a Counter Fraud Specialist but have not attained the ACFS qualification you may be eligible join as an Associate Member. Our members are from across the country and work in a broad range of areas, including Department of Work and Pensions, Home Office, Local Authorities, Ministry of Defence, NHS and in the large private sector accountancy firms. Members work in a variety of roles across counter fraud and corruption work including 'operational', managerial and policy.

For further benefits of membership please click here.