In response to the escalating threat of artificial intelligence-driven fraud, anti-fraud professionals are set to converge at the 8th Anti-Fraud National Conference of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners to chart a course for leveraging technology in combating financial crimes.
The event, scheduled to hold from March 19 to 22, 2025, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, will provide a crucial platform for discussing cutting-edge solutions to emerging fraud threats.
The President of ACFE South West Chapter, Nigeria, Dr Titilayo Fowokan, underscored the urgency of addressing the intersection of technology and fraud, which prompted this year’s theme, ‘Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics: Harnessing the Potentials for Forensic Fraud Investigation, Internal Auditing, and Enterprise Risk Management.’
She emphasised that as AI and machine learning evolve, they not only facilitate fraud but also serve as powerful tools for prevention and detection.
She said, “The rapid evolution of technology, including AI and machine learning, has significantly altered the business landscape, introducing new risks and vulnerabilities to fraud and fraudulent activities.
“The conference is thus designed to equip participants with essential skills to navigate the complexities of fraud prevention in a technology-driven world.”
The conference will feature an in-depth exploration of critical sub-themes such as Artificial Intelligence as a Fraud Prevention Tool, Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes: Annexing AI and Data Mining Techniques, and Upgrading Integrated Anti-Fraud Compliance and Ethics Programmes. These discussions aim to provide practical insights into enhancing forensic fraud investigations and enterprise risk management through AI and data analytics.
Fowokan further noted that the conference will serve as a melting pot for key stakeholders, including representatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
According to Fowokan, attendees will benefit from expert perspectives, experience-sharing sessions, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-fraud strategies.
She added, “The conference will highlight the dual nature of AI, which can be used for both fraudulent and anti-fraud purposes. Understanding this duality is crucial for effective fraud prevention and detection.
“There will also be paper presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, ensuring a holistic learning experience for all participants.
“With the rise of AI-enabled fraud schemes, the conference represents a timely intervention, equipping professionals with the necessary tools to safeguard businesses and financial institutions against evolving digital crimes,” she added.
