fraud plan for 2026/27
Richmond Council is addressing the escalating threat of AI-driven fraud, which will inform its strategic plan for fraud prevention and investigation for 2026/27.
In October 2026, Richmond Council's Audit, Standards and Statutory Accounts Committee was warned about the growing threat of sophisticated fraudulent activities, particularly those enhanced by artificial intelligence. Kevin Holland, Assistant Director of Fraud, Risk & Insurance, explained that AI reduces the effort needed for criminals to execute large-scale scams against council services.
Criminals are using AI to generate realistic fake documents and digital identities to support fraudulent applications for council services. This development is a key consideration for the council as it prepares its strategic plan for fraud prevention and investigation for the 2026/27 fiscal year.
Key facts
- Richmond Council's Audit, Standards and Statutory Accounts Committee received a warning about AI-driven fraud in October 2026. Source
- Kevin Holland, Assistant Director of Fraud, Risk & Insurance, delivered the warning to the committee. Source
- AI is used by criminals to generate fake documents and digital identities for fraudulent applications for council services. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.