What the SFO’s 2026–27 Business Plan means for fraud practitioners

The Serious Fraud Office (UK) has published its Business Plan 2026–27, and the message is clear: serious fraud enforcement is becoming more tech‑led, data‑driven and intelligence‑focused.

Key signals relevant to fraud professionals:

> AI and technology mainstreamed in investigations and disclosure

> Expanded cryptoasset and digital forensic capability

> Greater use of automation, TAR and proactive intelligence

> A push to improve disclosure efficiency and investigation timelines

For those working in fraud prevention, investigation and compliance, this reinforces the growing importance of digital readiness, evidence management and early intelligence—not just for regulators, but within organisations themselves.

A timely development for the counterfraud community, Midlands Fraud Forum Limited, ACFE UK Chapter etc as technology, collaboration and capability continue to shape the future of economic crime enforcement.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sfo-sets-out-ambitions-for-year-ahead