Fraud Investigator - High-techs Locate Fraud

A fraud investigator conducts high level research to uncover issues and suspects in the client’s cyber world. Problem-solving and analytical skills are required to prevent and minimize loss to the company. There may be some additional experience needed by the investigator depending on the field of business for which he investigates.

To prepare for this position, a fraud investigator needs to get a four year degree in Economic Crime Investigation which encompasses computer science, criminal justice and accounting. There is graduate work that can be done in fraud investigation where more education in business is acquired with an eye toward flushing out the fraud and for looking for tight controls that won’t allow an intruder to hack into data.


Fraud investigation is a relatively new arena and employers are requesting a combination of a four- year degree with specific experience in the industry. Their exchange for degreed investigators can be highly experienced computer oriented employees with up to 10+ years experience in the industry. Some companies need an expert in their business who is creative and can uncover possible areas exposed to criminal opportunities. Corporations who have their accounts computerized are susceptible in any area like accounts payable, accounts receivable, contracts and especially sensitive data with banking account numbers or credit card information.

Fraud investigators are employed by businesses that include fraud investigative departments to protect their data from cyber theft. Companies or law firms can also hire independent fraud investigators for special projects. The work environment is typically inside working at the computer with lots of detail for long periods of time. Salaries for fraud investigators begin around $48K and can go up to $60K. The pay is in line with education and experience requirements to be able to perform the job.

The work for some fraud investigators will include interfacing with clients of companies by conducting presentations to communicate the value, benefits and operations methodology of the company’s anti-fraud services division. This type of service is especially important to clients in the banking industry. Have you ever called to report a charge on your bank account that you didn’t authorize? Were you billed by an online company for something you didn’t order? This sort of fraud hits people deep down in their pockets so you can imagine how much a company is willing to invest to protect their business and their customers.

To conclude, the overwhelming computerization of business and online purchasing has created opportunities for new cyberspace crimes. Protecting the interest of these companies is a uniquely trained investigator who knows business, cyberspace, firewalls and networking. Fraud investigators need to maintain relationships with the state and federal regulatory authorities and with law enforcement agencies to file reports to expose the criminals and bring charges. Evidence and witness testimony might be needed for the cases. Fraud investigators are well paid and keep regular hours of working for a company. Companies and firms are now investing in candidates with criminal justice and business degrees plus up to 10 years of experience in the relevant industry.