Clue at Govnet Counter Fraud Conference 2026

Clue was proud to support Govnet’s Counter Fraud Conference 2026, bringing together leaders from across government, law enforcement and industry to explore how fraud continues to evolve – and how we respond.

As part of the programme, Clue hosted a panel session titled “How technology is used to advance harm”, chaired by our Chief Strategy Officer, Thomas Drohan, with expert perspectives from Laura Eshelby, Head of Economic Crime at Clue, and Adrian Searle, Independent Consultant in Economic Crime and Cyber. 

Technology, threats and the evolving fraud landscape

The discussion explored the scale of fraud in the UK, the growing impact of cyber‑enabled and technology‑driven threats, and how emerging tools – including AI – are being exploited by criminals to increase reach, speed and sophistication. Drawing on real‑world case studies, the panel highlighted where technology is amplifying existing criminal methodologies, as well as where it is enabling genuinely new forms of harm. 

The session reflected on the breadth of agencies now involved in tackling fraud, across the public sector and beyond, and the increasing need for collaboration as threats cut across organisational, sectoral and geographic boundaries. Long‑established fraud types such as mandate fraud, CEO fraud and romance fraud are being modernised and weaponised through technology, while identity fraud and automated bots are enabling criminals to mass‑target organisations and citizens at scale, often operating globally and with minimal friction. 

The panel also explored the industrialisation of fraud, including the commercialisation of phishing kits and fraud‑as‑a‑service models, alongside the use of financial markets and digital assets to move and launder illicit funds. The growing convergence of fraud, cyber and wider economic crime and security threats, reinforced the need for cross organisational and data silo working, harnessing intelligence‑led approaches that combine technology, insight and collaboration to disrupt harm earlier and more effectively in the lifecycle.

Recognising leadership in counter fraud

Beyond the conference agenda, Clue was honoured to be the headline sponsor of the Counter Fraud Awards – Female Pioneer of the Year 2026 category. The award was presented by our CEO, Clare Elford, and recognised Emma Cathcart, Head of Service at the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit, for her outstanding leadership and impact. Emma’s work in building a multi‑council shared service and embedding a proactive fraud‑prevention culture stands as a powerful example of innovation and resilience across the sector. 

Events like Govnet Counter Fraud Conference continue to underline the importance of shared insight, practical collaboration and the intelligent use of technology in strengthening the UK’s resilience to fraud. We were delighted to be part of the conversation. 

Learn more about how Clue supports teams tackling economic crime here.