The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is a Government Department that detects, investigates and prosecutes cases of serious and complex fraud.  The SFO Act 1990 gives the SFO powers to obtain evidence during the course of its investigations.  The chief executive of the SFO is the Director and Assistant Directors head the two operational arms of the Office - Investigations and Prosecutions.  Investigations are undertaken by teams of Investigators and Forensic Accountants.  SFO lawyers give legal advice on Investigations and then act as junior counsel to independent barristers who conduct SFO prosecutions on behalf of the Solicitor General.

The purpose of the SFO website is to:

• Provide general information about the SFO's purpose and functions including its powers.

• Provide specific information about current fraud issues and trends.

• Where possible, provide case specific information for the general public, the media and interested parties such as witnesses.