IFIG in conversation with new Board Member Kellie Lacey

We’re delighted to welcome Kellie Lacey as the newest member of the IFIG Board. Kellie brings over 15 years’ experience in insurance and counter-fraud, having progressed from claims handling to leading high-profile investigations. She is passionate about tackling misconceptions around fraud and driving industry initiatives, with a focus on emerging challenges such as AI and GDPR. Kellie’s expertise and collaborative approach make her a valuable addition to the IFIG board as we work together to strengthen the fight against insurance fraud.

What inspired you to join the IFIG board, and what do you hope to bring to the role?

I have always known about IFIG in my career and love the networking opportunities it brings, as well as the ability to share data/concerns in a secure environment. Over the years, IFIG has gone from strength to strength. When I was aware of an opportunity to join the board, I jumped at it, as it gives me a way of working to shape the future of counter-fraud initiatives at industry level and not just in motor/property.

Tell us a bit about your current role and your background in the insurance/fraud space.

I started out at the tender age of 19 working in bent metal claims. I wanted to be a lawyer, but also wanted to work, so this was a good place to start. I did claimant work for a about 7 years and then grew bored of people exaggerating minor claims etc. I joined a counter-fraud team and have never looked back. My first reported case was in 2007 (Isik v Clegg) and seemed to validate everything I had stood for. Most people think insurance fraud is acceptable at some level, and I love proving this is not only wrong but also has consequences!

What’s the biggest challenge you see in fraud prevention today?

I think there are 2 major ones – GDPR and AI.

Everyone is terrified of GDPR and the lack of understanding about what can be legitimately shared is staggering. I’ve had claims where invoices for a Limited company have the address redacted by the claims handling company for ‘GDPR’ purposes which highlights my point about lack of understanding.

AI is likely to prove a nightmare for counter-fraud practices given the capabilities it has. How can anyone be sure of anything with so much AI generated content?

What excites you most about being part of IFIG?

Being connected to a wider group of like-minded individuals who want to stop criminals getting money for nothing.

Share one thing people might be surprised to know about you.

During Covid, one of my cats made me an unwitting TikTok star by climbing onto my head and falling asleep. My daughter filmed it, posted it to her TikTok profile and it went viral.

What’s your go-to way of switching off outside of work?

I have lots of ways, but I do love a bit of dead scrolling on my phone. It’s mind numbing!

Do you have a favourite book, film, or podcast that’s stuck with you?

I always struggle when asked about favourite anything’s. I can’t say I have a favourite of any particular film etc. as I have an eclectic taste in things. If I was to say what film has stuck with me I’d say ‘A Time to Kill’.

My current podcast of choice is Uncanny. The stage show written by the presenter, Danny Robins (called 2:22 A Ghost Story) did stick with me for a few weeks after I saw it (but no spoiler alerts will be given as to why).

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting in fraud investigation, what would it be? 

Don’t believe anyone and check everything!