Tackling Fraud in Scotland Public Sector Strategy and Action to Prevent and Detect It

As Scotland navigates a period of significant fiscal pressure, the protection of public funds has never been more critical. Fraud in public services does more than just drain financial resources; it erodes the foundational trust between the citizenry and the state, undermining the delivery of essential health, education, and social outcomes. Despite the implementation of increasingly sophisticated oversight systems, the landscape of risk continues to shift. From the complexities of procurement and grant allocation to the rising tide of cyber-enabled fraud and internal payroll manipulation, the methods used to exploit public systems are in a state of constant evolution.

This comprehensive conference, hosted by MacKay Hannah Ltd, serves as a vital platform for Scotland's public and third-sector leaders to move beyond mere compliance. The session is designed to help organizations embed active prevention and detection strategies into the very fabric of their daily operations. Throughout the day, expert speakers will dissect the current "fraud landscape" in Scotland, highlighting the specific vulnerabilities exposed by the transition to digital-first services and the ongoing decentralization of service delivery.

Attendees will engage in deep-dive discussions regarding the "Data (Use and Access) Act 2025" and how new regulatory frameworks are reshaping the way public bodies share information to catch fraudulent activity before it occurs. The event will also explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in anomaly detection—balancing the efficiency of automated oversight with the necessity of human accountability. By attending, delegates will gain a clearer understanding of how to foster a culture of integrity that empowers staff at all levels to identify and report red flags. The program concludes with a focus on collaborative action, exploring how local authorities, the NHS, and central government can share intelligence to build a unified defense against financial crime in the 2026 fiscal year and beyond.