Course Overview

The threat of fraud is continuously increasing in both scale and complexity, affecting organisations across all sectors. Addressing this challenge requires more than reactive controls; it demands a proactive, structured approach supported by strong systems, data-driven insights, and effective collaboration across teams.

The Preparation Course for Certified Anti-Fraud Specialist (CAFS) is a five-day programme designed for professionals who want to strengthen their understanding of fraud risk and prepare confidently for the CAFS certification. It is suitable for individuals working in compliance, auditing, investigations, and risk management roles. The course equips participants with practical tools to identify control weaknesses, recognise early warning signs, and respond effectively to fraud-related risks.

The programme focuses on developing an integrated fraud risk management framework and leveraging data analysis for early fraud detection. It combines strategic thinking with hands-on application, covering investigative techniques, modern detection technologies, and coordination with legal and law enforcement authorities. Real-world case studies and interactive discussions ensure practical relevance.

In addition, the course provides targeted exam preparation support, helping participants translate their professional experience into certification success. By the end of the programme, participants will be well-prepared for the CAFS exam and better equipped to lead and support anti-fraud initiatives within their organisations.

Agenda

Day — 1 Building a Fraud Risk Management Program

• Defining fraud, its potential consequences, and the relevant regulatory and compliance requirements
• Understanding the structure and components of an effective fraud risk management framework
• Exploring processes for fraud risk identification and risk assessment across different business areas
• Identifying key controls, policies, procedures, and tools used to prevent and detect fraudulent activities
• Developing a structured approach to design, implement, and continuously improve a fraud response and remediation plan

Day — 2 Fraud Detection and Analytics

• Exploring how fraud analytics is used to detect, investigate, and prevent fraudulent activities
• Identifying common behavioral patterns and channels through which fraud originates
• Understanding the key components of data collection, cleaning, and preparation for fraud analysis
• Discussing the role of data analytics in strengthening fraud detection and prevention systems
• Exploring analytical tools and techniques used to identify suspicious patterns, anomalies, and irregular transactions
• Understanding the steps involved in building, testing, and validating a fraud detection model
• Describing how data-driven fraud controls are implemented and integrated into fraud detection systems

Day — 3 Fraud Investigations

• Understanding the importance of fraud detection and investigation in protecting organisations and ensuring compliance
• Discussing the role, responsibilities, and ethical obligations of a fraud investigator
• Exploring the structured fraud investigation process, including:
  • Planning the investigation
  • Gathering evidence
  • Analysing evidence
  • Reporting findings
• Identifying common fraud typologies and associated red flags across different scenarios
• Exploring investigative techniques, methods, and technologies used to collect, preserve, and analyse evidence
• Examining factors that influence the conclusion of an investigation, including documentation and evidentiary standards
• Understanding possible investigation outcomes and the required post-investigation procedures, including corrective actions and reporting mechanisms

Day — 4 Technologies to Combat Fraud

• Exploring advanced fraud prevention and detection technologies and their practical applications in modern organisations
• Understanding the use of machine learning models and data analytics to identify, predict, and prevent fraudulent activities
• Examining the role of security features, authentication methods, and biometric technologies in strengthening fraud prevention systems
• Applying guidelines for integrating multiple fraud detection technologies to improve identification, response, and mitigation of fraud risks
• Exploring the use of blockchain technology to enhance transaction security, transparency, and traceability in fraud prevention systems

Day — 5 Fraud Case Studies and Exam Preparation

• Applying guidelines for conducting a fraud risk assessment and developing an effective fraud risk management framework
• Reviewing the complete fraud investigation process, from initiation through to resolution and reporting
• Understanding steps for managing a fraud response during cybersecurity breaches, including coordination and containment strategies
• Exploring methods for detecting and uncovering external fraud using data analytics and investigative techniques
• Learning the steps required to design and implement a fraud detection system within an organisation
• Examining real-time fraud interception techniques used to detect and prevent fraudulent activity as it occurs
• Reviewing practical tips and strategies for ACFS exam preparation and success
• Completing course evaluation and final recap to reinforce key learning outcomes

Learning Outcomes

By attending the Preparation Course for Certified Anti-Fraud Specialist (CAFS), you will be able to:

• Understand the fundamentals and key components of an effective fraud risk management system aligned with international standards
• Identify major fraud typologies, emerging trends, and early warning indicators across different industries and sectors
• Explain the role of governance structures, reporting lines, and internal controls in preventing and mitigating fraud risks
• Apply data analytics techniques and technologies for proactive fraud detection, monitoring, and investigation
• Evaluate and select appropriate fraud prevention and detection tools based on organisational risk profiles and operational needs
• Understand strategies for effective collaboration with compliance, audit, legal teams, and law enforcement agencies in fraud-related cases
• Analyse real-world fraud case studies and apply CAFS concepts to practical investigative and preventive scenarios
• Develop effective exam preparation strategies and build confidence for successfully completing the CAFS certification

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their fraud prevention, detection, and investigation capabilities, including:

• Anti-fraud specialists
• Fraud officers, managers, and investigators
• Compliance and AML professionals
• Auditors and internal control professionals
• Financial crime, technology, and product specialists
• BSA/AML officers and Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) personnel
• Public and private sector professionals