Common questions from complainants
Q. What do you investigate?
The Serious Fraud Office investigates serious or complex fraud. Our priorities lie with cases where:
• There are multiple victims (usually investors) of the suspected fraud
• The sum of money lost exceeds $2,000,000
• The alleged criminal transactions have significant legal or financial complexity beyond the resources of most other law enforcement agencies.
In the case of bribery or corruption matters, we focus on crimes involving public officials, which could undermine public confidence in the administration of laws.
We do not become involved in matters of tax evasion, identity fraud or civil disputes. See What we don’t do
Q. Do I need to be a victim to make a complaint?
No, anyone is able to make a complaint to the Serious Fraud Office.
Q. Can someone else report the crime for me?
We prefer you to report the crime directly because you know the full details of the alleged offence. However, we understand there are certain circumstances, such as distress or personal safety, where reporting the crime yourself can be very difficult. In these circumstances you can report a crime through a trusted friend, family member or professional adviser.
Q. How much information do I need to make a complaint to the SFO?
A complaint can initially be made without supporting documents. But documentation will be required before the matter can be formally assessed. If you have a suspicion a fraud may have been committed, you are welcome to submit it to us. (Further guidance can be provided at that stage.)
Q. How do I make a complaint to the SFO?
You can make a complaint by phone, email, fax or post. For information on making a complaint to the Serious Fraud Office please click here
Q. Will the subject of my complaint be told that I am the complainant?
No. All complaints are treated in complete confidence during an initial investigation. However if the matter proceeds to a prosecution, it may be necessary for you to give evidence as a witness.
Q. Can you help me get my money back?
No. The recovery of losses is a civil matter. We only conduct criminal investigations and prosecutions. You would need to seek advice from an appropriately qualified and experienced legal practitioner to consider civil recovery.
Q. How long will the SFO investigation take?
Because the matters we investigate are very complex, often with many thousands of documents to examine, an investigation usually takes many months. Our targets are:
• Response to initial complaint: As soon as practicably possible
• Inquiry: Either 14 or 28 days depending on the category assigned to the inquiry
• Part I investigation: 3 months
• Part II investigation: 9 or 12 months depending on the category assigned to the case.