The Fraud Investigator I position is a key role in the Fraud Investigations Unit of the Corporate Fraud Division. This position is responsible for conducting comprehensive external fraud investigations on check fraud, wire fraud, account take over, identity theft, new account fraud, elderly exploitation, and other types of fraud, to detect and prevent fraud losses to the bank and the customer. They are responsible for reviewing all allegations of suspected fraud; analyzing data, making critical decisions and interviewing witnesses, suspects, employees and other related parties. They are responsible for reporting findings, taking the appropriate action and effectively managing cases. Furthermore, they are responsible for the facilitation of fraud recovery in an effort to minimize fraud losses to the bank and its customers. May perform general account handling functions such as, close account determination, holds, restraints, etc. Routinely contacts customers and other bank associates to confirm the legitimacy of high-risk transactions prior to occurrence and takes appropriate action, to mitigate the risk to the Bank and the Customer. May provide support in other investigations as assigned by the Fraud Investigations Team Lead or the Fraud Investigations Unit Manager. Will serve as liaison with the business lines, financial institution partners and law enforcement. Position role and responsibilities, must be performed in adherence to the compliance of bank and department operational policies and regulations, including but not limited to Regulation E, CC, GG, V, the FCRA, FACT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, NACHA, and Visa Operating Rules.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigate and manage external fraud investigations, such as check fraud, new account fraud, elder exploitation, wire fraud, online take over and other, ensuring cases are handled timely, and documented accurately with a concise case summary, following existing procedures.
• Conduct research, compile, save and retrieve data for the preparation of investigative reports for assigned cases
• Review surveillance systems and extract photos/videos for use by the bank and law enforcement personnel.
• Use internal and external resources to obtain forensic evidence for investigative purposes when reviewing fraud detection reports or investigating cases.
• Notify and work with law enforcement and prosecutor's office regarding criminal cases to ensure proper resolution.
• May attend criminal and civil court proceedings as necessary to complete the prosecution of cases.
• Conduct interviews of employees, suspects, witnesses and other related parties.
• Facilitate fraud recovery efforts to minimize losses to the bank and the customers.
• May prepare and submit Suspicious Referral Forms (SRF) for final submission of SARs as required. Proper SAR determination is essential.
• Provide business lines with support and guidance associated with fraud incidents and any reported unusual/suspicious activity.
• Provide guidance to customer victims on the appropriate course of action and provide fraud prevention counseling as needed (i.e. ID Theft, wire fraud, malware, phishing)
• Remain current with arising fraud trends and activities by attending networking workshops and/or training.
• May participate in the Bank's Business Continuity Plan and Emergency Response plan as needed.
• May assist the Fraud Operations Unit with fraud monitoring and fraud analysis report management if needed.
• Perform any other assignments as directed by Fraud Investigations Team Lead or the Fraud Investigations Unit Manager.
• May travel to off-site locations for investigative purposes.
• Prioritize tasks to ensure deadlines and expectations are met.
• Work cases with a sense of urgency while ensuring the accuracy of information.
• Maintain confidentiality surrounding fraud methods and investigations.
• Build effective relationships with internal/external stakeholders (e.g. law enforcement agencies and other Financial Institutions to collaborate in investigations).
• Network and develop effective contacts in the private, public and government sector, to assist in fraud investigations.
• Adheres to and complies with applicable, federal and state laws, regulations and guidance, including those related to anti-money laundering (i.e. Bank Secrecy Act, US PATRIOT Act, etc.).
• Adheres to Bank policies and procedures and completes required training.
• Identifies and reports suspicious activity.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• N/A

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• College Degree (Criminal Justice/Cybersecurity) preferred Or
• 3-5 years prior fraud investigation experience in financial institution preferred

Experience

• Must have experience in the areas of check fraud, Identity Theft, ATM/Debit card fraud, bank operations and other related fraud
• Must have experience with the recovery rights for various types of check fraud (altered, forged and endorsement) and EFT claims (ACH and Debit/ATM)

Licenses and Certifications

• N/A

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of financial transactions
• Working knowledge of bank products, services, bank systems and transaction types.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Detail oriented with strong research and problem solving skills.
• Must be knowledgeable of Regulations/Acts that pertain to the job functions, which include, but are not limited to, Regulations E, CC, and Bank Secrecy Act.
• Knowledge and understanding of State and Federal Criminal Statutes.

Additional Information

• Candidates residing in locations within BankUnited's footprint may be given preference.