A new AI tool, the Fraud Risk Assessment Accelerator, has significantly assisted the UK government in recovering nearly £500 million in fraudulent funds over the past year, with £186 million linked to Covid-19 fraud. This initiative is part of the government’s effort to combat fraud, particularly following widespread misuse during the pandemic. Over a third of the reclaimed funds stemmed from unlawful council tax claims and illegal subletting of social housing. Today, the government will announce that this innovative AI tool will be licensed for use in other countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. While this tool aims to protect taxpayer money, civil liberties advocates express concerns about its fairness and potential biases. The Cabinet Office emphasizes that these reclaimed funds will enhance public services, recruiting essential personnel like nurses and police officers, while ensuring that anti-fraud measures evolve to safeguard public resources.
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