Staying a Step Ahead of Fraud

Debriefing

John Sargent Director, Special Investigative Unit, MetLife Auto & Home

What's the most difficult type of fraud to detect?

It's very difficult to detect someone who is that one-time opportunist, who decides to claim damage [fraudulently]. You want to err on the side of believing your insured.

What are the limits of antifraud technology today?

We look at it as truly just a tool. It brings to light those things that need to be looked at, but the system doesn't tell you if something is fraud.

What else would help you fight fraud?

Additional access to public record data might help improve our results. We also think there should be better sharing of suspicious claim data to help the entire industry. If companies were more forthcoming with their suspicious claim data, everyone would benefit.