On 14 July 2026, the Government published Part 2 of Jonathan Fisher KC's Independent Review of Disclosure and Fraud Offences, Fraud in the Digital Age.

The report paints a stark picture of modern fraud: a high-volume, technology-enabled, cross-border crime that remains too often a low-risk, high-reward activity for offenders. While it concludes that the core legal framework—including the Fraud Act 2006 and conspiracy to defraud remains broadly fit for purpose, it argues that the wider system for detecting, investigating, prosecuting, and preventing fraud is fragmented, under-resourced and struggling to keep pace.

What makes this review particularly significant is its emphasis on moving from a reactive enforcement model to a whole-system prevention strategy.

Key recommendations include:

Greater corporate and platform accountability

• A new failure-to-prevent fraud offence for regulated user-to-user services

• An anti-fraud levy on digital and communications infrastructure providers

• Stronger duties on platforms whose systems are exploited for scam advertising and fraud

Improved data sharing

• Statutory foundations for public-private intelligence sharing

• Clearer guidance on lawful information sharing

• Enhanced powers and reforms to support investigations and disruption

Tackling fraud enablers

• Measures targeting identity abuse, money mules, and fraud-enabling products

• Stronger powers for the Insolvency Service

• Expanded use of AI and advanced technology by law enforcement

International cooperation

• UK leadership on fraud through international agreements

• Targeted sanctions and visa restrictions for overseas fraud organisers

• Fraud cooperation provisions within trade agreements

Stronger justice outcomes

• Enhanced judicial training and modernised court processes

• Increased maximum sentences for serious fraud and money laundering

• Greater focus on victim participation, compensation, and restorative justice

Perhaps most notably, the review recognises that fraud prevention cannot sit solely with law enforcement. It requires coordinated action across government, regulators, technology providers, financial institutions, and businesses.

For compliance, legal, risk and fraud professionals, the report signals a continued shift towards shared responsibility, proactive prevention, and stronger organisational accountability.

The challenge now is not whether fraud is a national priority—it is whether the recommended reforms can be delivered at the pace and scale needed to match the rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Open Report