Experts express skepticism toward ‘challenging’ SFO strategy

The U.K. Serious Fraud Office (SFO) last month published its five-year strategic plan outlining how it intends to improve information gathering and international cooperation, as well as its enforcement record.

Under its new director, Nick Ephgrave, the SFO wants to upskill its workforce so investigators can use the latest tech to streamline case management and make better use of the agency’s resources. It wants to pursue a more proactive approach to crime prevention using both existing powers and potential new ones, including exploring whistleblower incentivization and pushing for a better disclosure regime.

In 2026/27, the SFO will conduct a mid-plan assessment to see if its efforts are paying off.