As the most commonly experienced crime in the UK, it is likely we either know a victim or have been a victim of fraud ourselves. The short- and long-term human impact from these types of frauds can be devastating and it is important that we do what we can to protect ourselves in our personal and work lives.

At a personal level, we would recommend a read of the ‘Little Book of Big Scams’

At a University level, we continue to revisit our approach to anti-fraud to ensure we minimise the associated risk. Our Counter Fraud Policy and Fraud Response Plan outline our overall approach, provide guidance as to how to proceed if you suspect fraud and list some of the common frauds across the UK and higher education sector.

It is important to note that we all have a responsibility to report suspected fraud. In the majority of instances, this will involve communicating the issue to your Head of Department and the Head of Internal Audit. The only exception would be if one of these individuals is involved in the suspected fraud for which you should consult the Fraud Response Plan for an alternative reporting route such as disclosing through our Whistleblowing Policy. If the fraud requires an immediate response (e.g. you are witnessing the suspected theft of a University asset) the University of Bath Security team can be contacted on 01225 383999.

Common areas of fraud within the Higher Education sector can include;

  • Phishing & Ransomware – A scam email, phone call etc. is used to trick individuals into downloading a virus, ransomware or steal bank details or other personal information.
  • Email Impersonation – An email arrives from what looks like your boss asking you to undertake an urgent activity (possibly involving changing supplier bank details) without following appropriate process.
  • Misuse of Procurement or Expense Policy – Personal or fictitious expenditure is fraudulently claimed as University expenditure.
  • Inappropriate Selection of Suppliers – Not following University process for selecting a supplier e.g. choosing the supplier because your partner set it up.
  • Fake or Forged student application details – Creating or procuring forged qualifications, passports or visas in order to use them as part of your application to study.

In order to appropriately safeguard the University and yourself from fraud, it is important to familiarise yourself with the guidance as set out in your mandatory training (such as Cyber Security, Bribery Act, etc.) and where appropriate other University Policies and Guidance available on the University webpages.

The University is committed to tackling fraud and will take all reports of suspected fraud seriously.