A Fraud Detection Analyst identifies, investigates and prevents fraudulent activity across payment systems and digital channels. The role combines data analysis, rule tuning and investigative work to reduce financial loss and protect customers. The analyst will liaise with operations, legal and IT teams to implement controls and recommend process improvements.
This Fraud Detection Analyst job description outlines the core activities and skills required to detect and mitigate fraud across financial and digital services. It is designed for HR teams and recruiters seeking a clear template to attract top candidates.
Fraud Detection Analyst Job Profile
The Fraud Detection Analyst will analyse transactional and behavioural data to identify unusual patterns and potential fraud. They will use rule-based systems, machine learning outputs and manual investigation to determine the risk and impact of suspicious activity.
The role requires close collaboration with fraud operations, compliance and engineering teams to refine detection rules, escalate incidents and support remediation. The analyst will also prepare reports and contribute to the continuous improvement of fraud prevention strategies.
Fraud Detection Analyst Job Description
As a Fraud Detection Analyst, you will be responsible for monitoring real-time alerts and retrospective data to uncover fraud attempts. You will review cases, validate alerts, and apply criteria to accept, reject or escalate incidents. The role requires an analytical mindset, attention to detail and an ability to balance automation with manual review.
You will tune detection rules and models, test new scenarios and work with data scientists to improve model performance. The post includes preparing clear case notes, maintaining evidence chains and liaising with internal stakeholders such as payments, legal and customer service teams. In some organisations, you will also support law enforcement and regulatory reporting.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable with SQL and data visualisation tools, and have experience with fraud detection platforms and transaction monitoring systems. Strong communication skills are essential to present findings and recommend prevention measures to senior colleagues.
Fraud Detection Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
- Monitor and investigate alerts from transaction monitoring systems and fraud platforms
- Analyse large data sets to detect unusual patterns and emerging fraud trends
- Validate alerts, create cases, document findings and maintain audit trails
- Tune rules and thresholds to reduce false positives while preserving detection rates
- Collaborate with data science and engineering teams to implement model improvements
- Prepare regular reports and dashboards on fraud metrics and losses
- Support escalation processes and liaise with compliance, legal and operations teams
- Provide recommendations for process, policy and control enhancements
- Assist with regulatory reporting and support external investigations when required
- Deliver training and guidance to frontline staff on fraud indicators and handling procedures
Fraud Detection Analyst Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, computer science, mathematics or related discipline
- Proven experience in fraud detection, transaction monitoring or financial crime prevention
- Strong analytical skills and experience with SQL and data interrogation
- Familiarity with fraud detection tools, rule engines and machine learning concepts
- Ability to produce clear, concise reports and present findings to stakeholders
- Knowledge of payment systems, AML regulations and data privacy requirements
- Attention to detail, investigative mindset and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Experience working with cross-functional teams and managing escalations
- Professional qualifications such as ACAMS, ICA or equivalent are advantageous
