What is up fraud fighters and welcome to Fraud Forward.

In this episode we sit down with Ted Josephson, VP of Bank Fraud and Credit Strategy at Synchrony Financial, to talk about what advanced fraud solutions leadership really looks like when fraud prevention moves beyond reacting to threats and becomes part of enterprise strategy.

Ted’s path into the fraud space did not start in a fraud department. It started in banking operations working branches, call centers, and digital systems. That kind of experience shapes how leaders approach fraud prevention because they understand how financial institutions actually function day to day.

And that perspective matters.

Because strong fraud leadership is not just about stopping bad transactions. It is about building resilient teams, aligning fraud prevention with credit strategy leadership, and making strategic fraud decisions that protect both customers and institutions at scale.

Throughout the conversation we explore how enterprise fraud teams evolve as institutions grow and why fraud leaders must shift from tactical problem solving to long term strategy.

In this episode we discuss

• How fraud leaders transition from investigators to strategic decision makers

• Why enterprise fraud solutions require strong collaboration across fraud, credit, and risk teams

• What changes when organizations scale fraud prevention across millions of accounts

• Why the language fraud leaders use internally can shape executive decisions

• How modern fraud threats require both advanced technology and human judgment

This episode is for you if

• You lead banking fraud prevention teams and want to strengthen your fraud leadership strategies

• You work in credit risk, compliance, or financial crime teams navigating enterprise fraud decisions

• You support credit union fraud prevention programs and want insights from large scale fraud organizations

• You are building advanced fraud prevention programs and want to understand how leadership drives fraud prevention innovation

Fraud leadership today requires more than tools and alerts. It requires strategy, communication, and the ability to guide teams through uncertainty while fraud threats continue to evolve.

If you enjoy the conversation, make sure to subscribe to Fraud Forward on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep moving fraud forward.

Fraudsters aren’t only targeting customers anymore. They’re targeting fraud teams.

In this episode of Fraud Forward, Hailey Windham sits down with Jared Gruenberg to explain how fake LinkedIn companies are using Easy Apply and “pre-interview” screening emails to harvest operational intelligence; the exact tools, signals, and investigation workflows that fraud, AML, and compliance teams use to stop bad actors.

Jared shares the real-world pattern he found across multiple impersonated companies, including suspicious hiring volume, fake employee profiles, brand-new domains, and fast follow-ups that push candidates to answer detailed technical questions. The goal isn’t just personal data, it’s industry mapping. When attackers collect hundreds of answers from experienced candidates, they can tune their tactics, probe specific vendor controls, and even train themselves to pass recruiter screens.

Hailey and Jared also dig into why this works: LinkedIn’s trust factor, the low-friction nature of Easy Apply, and the human reality of burnout, layoffs, and career pressure that makes “two taps on your phone” feel worth it.

Topics covered:

• How fake LinkedIn companies use Easy Apply as an attack surface

• The signals that reveal impersonation and resume-harvesting rings

• Why fraud, AML, and compliance resumes are especially valuable

• How “technical screening” emails turn into playbook extraction

• What attackers can do with aggregated investigator responses

• Why burnout and layoffs increase vulnerability, even for experts

• Practical steps to protect fraud knowledge and share intelligence safely

🎙 Guest lineup:

Jared Gruenberg — Fraud investigator and author of “Your Fraud Team Is Leaking Your Defense Playbook Right Now”

Hailey Windham — Host of Fraud Forward & Community Banking Lead, Sardine

👉 Subscribe for more real-world fraud insights from the people closest to the risk.

This is a legacy episode from Banking on Fraudology, originally published on December 3, 2025.

In this episode of Fraud Forward (formerly Banking on Fraudology), Hailey Windham welcomes back Ian Mitchell, founder of The Knoble, to delve into the organization's critical mission, its global impact, and the urgent need for community support.

The conversation centers on the concept of "human crimes," a focus area for The Knoble, which includes human trafficking, child exploitation (especially online exploitation of children), scams, and elder financial exploitation. Banks are in a powerful position to detect and disrupt these financially motivated crimes proactively.

Ian's message to fraud fighters and leaders is to "live with heart" and to remember that they are in the people business. He encourages listeners to get involved in The Knoble's free network and consider sending a team member to the Human Crime Specialist Program.

In this reflective and gratitude-filled episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham takes a moment to step back and appreciate the people and themes shaping the fight against fraud, delivering a "giant serving of gratitude" for the community.

The conversation dives into the industry's evolution, highlighting how innovation and collaboration are aligning to create a powerful, transformative moment in fraud prevention. Hailey also shares personal highlights from a recent major industry event and spotlights the leaders who are making a significant impact.

Key Takeaways: Gratitude, Collaboration, and the Future of Fraud Fighting

1. Empathy is Not Optional: Hailey stresses that empathy must be recognized as a core fraud prevention strategy. Inspired by Kathy Stokes of AARP and the "Words Matter campaign," the episode emphasizes that if we shame victims, we protect fraudsters, and we must talk about victims with dignity.
2. The End of Siloed Intelligence: Collaboration is no longer optional; we fight better when we fight together. Hailey discusses conversations with innovators like Robbie from Sardine, who advocate for collective intelligence, shared signals, and bringing smaller institutions into the fold.
3. Innovation is Working For Us: Drawing on insights from Andrea at Old Glory Bank, Hailey asserts that this is the best time to fight fraud, as technology, data, and awareness are aligning, and tools are evolving quickly. Fraud fighters should start embracing tech and AI resources.
4. Spotlight on Industry Leaders: Hailey expresses gratitude for the impact of numerous leaders, including Jen (America's Credit Unions) for empowering frontline teams with quarterly fraud trainings, Mark Solomon (IAFCI) for his global perspective , and Trisha Stoner (Carolinas Chapter IAFCI) whom Hailey is honored to serve as Second VP under.
5. Honoring Courage and Legacy: The episode shares moving highlights from the Carolinas IAFCI Conference, including the creation of a Community Service Award and the naming of the Gavin Guffey Cyber Investigator of the Year award. This new award honors the legacy of Gavin Guffey and the advocacy of House Representative Brandon Guffey in the fight against online exploitation and sextortion.
6. The State of the Fraud Fighter: The biggest theme resonating with every guest is that fraud fighters are exhausted, but hopeful. That combination of determination and optimism is what is creating movement.

Get in the mood of being grateful and be reminded of how strong the fraud-fighting community truly is.

Banking on Fraudology is presented by Sardine.ai.

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham sits down with Ravi Loganathan, Co-founder and President of Sonar AI and Head of Banking and Policy at Sardine. Ravi, who has over 20 years in banking and consortium work with institutions like Early Warning Services, Zelle, and Bank of America, has been leading the charge at Sardine to make intelligent sharing accessible and actionable for all institutions.

The conversation dives deep into the concept of collective intelligence, which Ravi describes as a "must-have" in the age of accelerating AI-driven scams. Fraudsters exploit information sharing gaps by jumping from one institution (like a fintech) to another (like a large regulated bank), making an ecosystem-wide defense essential.

Key Takeaways: Unlocking Collective Intelligence with Sonar AI

1. The Sonar AI Origin Story: Sonar AI was kickstarted three years ago by a group of banks and fintechs to fill a critical gap: the lack of infrastructure for real-time risk information sharing when funds movement or instant settlement is authorized. This was driven by the need to combat authorized push payment (APP) fraud, particularly concerning the lack of insights on the recipient.
2. How Sonar AI Works: Sonar AI is an industry utility. Before an institution authorizes a fund movement or account opening, they can inquire into Sonar on the entity conducting the transaction. Sonar returns curated signals (often simplified to "high, medium, low" risk, block list status, etc.) for the institution to augment their existing risk decisioning process. In return, the institution provides feedback, benefiting the next inquiring member.
3. Regulatory Foundation: Sonar AI is built on a strong regulatory framework, having worked with FinCEN to receive 314(b) designation to form an association of financial institutions. It also facilitates broader fraud signal sharing under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA).
4. Empowering Smaller FIs: Sonar AI offers features specifically for smaller community banks and credit unions, including batch contribution and batch inquiry to eliminate the need for immediate API tech builds. Ravi details their collaboration with the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) accelerator program to embed Sardine's solutions into core providers and invite FIs to join Sonar as members.
5. Future Innovations: Ravi reveals Sonar AI's newest services, including Footprint, which provides a broader view of a consumer's financial standing by tracking their transactions across crypto exchanges, marketplaces, and fintechs , and the expansion of the Red Flag service for monitoring credentials leaked on the dark web.

This is a must-listen for investigators, executives, and anyone working in the financial crimes space who is serious about strengthening prevention efforts and is ready to embrace the future of shared, collective defense.

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

In this powerful bonus episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham sits down with Andrea Vallentine, Senior Vice President of Fraud and Risk at Old Glory Bank.

The conversation dives deep into Andrea's genuinely excited perspective that "this might actually be the best time to be fighting fraud". We explore the rising momentum of collaboration and shared learning that is unifying the industry against fraudsters.

1. The Power of Collaboration: Andrea highlights the exciting activities and investments from groups like Fraud Fight Club, Operation Shamrock, and House of Fraud. The focus is shifting from selling products to learning, educating, and collaborating.
2. The AI Perspective: The industry is moving past fear, recognizing that AI has been around for a long time. The recent AI explosion has gotten people more open to listening, realizing they are already using smart technologies in areas like transaction scoring (e.g., Falcon) and link analysis.

1. A Shift to Purpose: Collaboration is increasing because the industry now recognizes the emotional devastation and human impact of fraud. The focus has moved beyond competing to a shared mission of working together "against the fraudsters".

1. Tips for Smaller Teams (Leveraging AI): Andrea recommends that smaller teams use AI (like ChatGPT) to draft summaries, create templates, and refine procedures. This allows teams to find holes in their processes and generate new ideas without using sensitive PII.

1. The Human Side of Design: Empathy is shaping the next generation of fraud design. Using machine learning to identify patterns of customer friction , and giving real-life stories to team members, helps move them out of "robot mode" and focus on the customer experience.

1. Andrea's Final Thought: AI is not scary, and we have been using it forever in things like marketing suggestions on Amazon. She encourages everyone to get involved and leverage the wealth of existing, shared resources instead of recreating materials.

This is a must-listen for executives, investigators, and all fraud professionals who are serious about strengthening prevention efforts and building a fraud-fighting community driven by empathy and innovation.

Links:

1. Connect to Andrea on LinkedIn
2. Learn more about the Safeguard AI deep dive retreat happening in May : SafeguardEvent.com

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn

In this powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham sits down with John Duffley, Communications Director at the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), who leads the global coordination and growth of International Fraud Awareness Week.

The conversation dives deep into the origins of this massive global initiative, which began in 2000 as "National Fraud Awareness Week" and has since evolved to be celebrated by thousands of organizations across more than 130 countries, supporting a community of over 95,000 fraud professionals.

Key Takeaways: International Fraud Awareness Week

A Global Springboard: Fraud Week is an annual opportunity for organizations of all sizes—from local law firms to Fortune 500 companies—to discuss and address fraud prevention and detection efforts, serving as a launchpad for success in the coming year.

Creative Campaign Ideas: Organizations participate in countless impactful ways, including multi-week campaigns, virtual trainings, community events, social media efforts, and internal recognition (like Hailey's personal "Scooby Doo Awards"!).

Tips for Smaller Teams: John and Hailey share simple, budget-friendly ways smaller financial institutions (FIs) like credit unions and community banks can participate, emphasizing conversation, awareness, social media engagement, and internal recognition. Hailey shares a successful, low-cost fraud roundtable example.

Essential ACFE Resources: Get a rundown of the free resources available on fraudweek.com, including proclamation and press release templates, interactive games like "Geo Party" and "Fraud Myth Busters," videos, infographics, and a simple Fraud Prevention Checklist.

Building a Fraud-Savvy Culture: Learn how Fraud Week can initiate long-term cultural change, the importance of gaining leadership buy-in by reaffirming brand trust, and the proven ROI of awareness training (tips are the most common detection method, accounting for 43% of frauds).

John's Top Tip for Every Fraud Fighter: Start a conversation with someone close to you—a colleague, supervisor, or family member—because awareness begins with simply sharing what you know to protect those most vulnerable to scams.

This is a must-listen for investigators, executives, and anyone working in the financial crimes space who is serious about strengthening prevention efforts and building a global fraud-fighting community.

Don't forget to use #FraudWeek when sharing your organization's efforts!

Links:

Connect with the global fraud-fighting community and download your free resources: fraudweek.com

acfe.com/

In this powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham sits down with Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP, a nationally recognized leader in consumer protection and elder fraud prevention.

The conversation dives deep into Stokes's foundational statement: "We need to talk about victims in order to talk about the fraud as a crime". They explore why language is the single most critical tool in the fight against financial crime and how the words we choose can either help or harm.

Key Takeaways:

- Calling it a Crime: Stokes explains that financial fraud must be viewed as a crime, not as a mistake by the person who experienced it, which helps shift the blame from the victim to the transnational criminal enterprises that are often responsible.

- The Problem with Avoiding "Victim": While a person who experienced the crime should be allowed to lead the conversation one-on-one, in the third person, the term "victim" should be used to help people understand the severity of the crime.

- The Power of Empathy: They discuss the psychological impact of being deceived, and why approaching a person with context and empathy (rather than immediately saying "you've been scammed") is crucial to prevent them from shutting down.

- Changing the Language: Stokes shares two terms she wishes the industry would eliminate: "fraudster," because it sounds "kind of cute" and gets the perpetrator "off the hook," and "victim assisted," which inaccurately implies the victim aided the crime rather than being coerced or manipulated.

- A Call to Action for Fraud Teams: Kathy Stokes stresses that the first reaction to someone who has experienced fraud should be: "My God, I'm so sorry this happened to you. It's not your fault. Come on, let's talk about it. Let's report it".

- Hope for the Future: Hear about AARP's groundbreaking work, including the Words Matter campaign and their effort to change the narrative surrounding fraud through advocacy, education, and partnerships.

This is a must-listen for investigators, executives, and anyone working in the financial crimes space who is serious about strengthening prevention efforts and supporting those impacted by fraud.

______________________________

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn

Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn

Links:

AARP Words Matter Campaign: aarp.org/wordsmatter

Fraud Wars on Youtube

AARP Fraud Watch Network

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this insightful episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Widham welcomes Mark Solomon, President of the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI), for an in-depth look at how global collaboration is reshaping the fight against financial crime.

With more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement and fraud investigation, Mark shares his personal journey from detective to IAFCI leader and reveals how the organization’s vast network of over 8,000 members empowers professionals across banking, retail, insurance, and law enforcement. The discussion explores the IAFCI’s mission, structure, and the importance of community-driven intelligence sharing, plus a look at major initiatives such as its annual conference and the recent cryptocurrency summit.

Mark Solomon

https://www.iafci.org/

https://open.spotify.com/show/6IkkWtu1U7kJmJTbh4CxdK?si=d7f856c500f14511

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/iafci-presents-the-protectors/id1587253361

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Ronan Burke, co-founder and CEO of Inscribe, to discuss the alarming rise of document fraud in financial services. As generative AI makes creating fake documents easier than ever, Burke reveals that AI-generated and template-based document fraud has surged over 200% in just the first half of 2023. The conversation dives deep into how fraudsters are weaponizing tools like ChatGPT to produce convincing forgeries of bank statements, pay stubs, and tax forms that can fool even experienced analysts. Burke explains that it's no longer just about spotting obvious fakes - financial institutions now face the challenge of proving documents are real. The episode explores why smaller banks and credit unions are especially vulnerable, and offers practical advice for fraud teams to keep up, including leveraging AI powered document verification tools. Windham and Burke stress that while AI is enabling more sophisticated fraud, it's also the key to detecting and preventing it. This timely discussion is a must listen for fraud fighters, compliance professionals, and financial leaders looking to understand and combat the next wave of AI-driven document fraud. Don't miss this chance to arm yourself with cutting edge insights. Tune in now and join the fight against financial crime in the AI era.

Ronan Burke

1. https://www.inscribe.ai/blog/from-forgeries-to-deepfakes-document-fraud-in-the-age-of-generative-ai
2. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnnbrk/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Widham sits down with Travis Cox, investigator with the South Carolina Department of Corrections, to uncover the dark world of prison based fraud and organized crime.

Cox shares a rare inside look at how inmates use contraband cell phones to run sophisticated fraud, extortion, and money laundering schemes from behind bars often mirroring the tactics of external fraud rings and cybercriminal networks.

Through cases like “Iron Pipeline,” “Flash,” and “Clean Sweep,” Hailey and Travis reveal how prisoners leverage technology, manipulation, and underground communication tools to traffic drugs, exploit victims, and move millions through cryptocurrency, peer-to-peer apps, and even online gaming platforms.

The conversation highlights the growing threat these crimes pose to financial institutions, law enforcement, and local communities, calling for stronger collaboration, tougher sentencing, and smarter fraud detection strategies.

Roy E. Cox

District of South Carolina | Two Men Charged With Illegally Trafficking Almost 60 Guns Into Philadelphia From South Carolina | United States Department of Justice

State Grand Jurors issue rare report on continued problem of organized crime run from within state prisons using contraband cellphones - South Carolina Attorney General

FCC approves cell phone jamming against SC prison inmates | The State

Man accused of setting fire at home of South Carolina corrections officer in suspected retaliation | WBTW

Ex-prison guard, shot six times, hails FCC push to allow cellphone jamming behind bars

Nine SCDC inmates, six others indicted in $5M fraud scheme | WCBD News 2

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this dynamic episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham kicks off a new monthly series in collaboration with Safeguard, paving the way to their 2026 AI Deep Dive Retreat. Joined by industry thought leaders Mitul Parmar and Brian Davis, Hailey explores the urgent need for AI education, collaboration, and strategic adoption across fraud, identity, and compliance sectors.

As artificial intelligence reshapes the fraud landscape, this episode dives into the real world challenges professionals face-from vendor noise and overhyped promises to the complexities of integrating AI into existing workflows. The conversation zeroes in on building AI-capable teams, fostering healthy skepticism, and driving practical innovation.

http://www.safeguardevent.com/

Brian D.

Mitul Parmar

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

“It’s always Day One” sounds like a startup cliché… until you hear it from someone who’s spent his career on the front lines of threat finance.

In this episode of Fraud Forward, host Hailey Windham sits down with Ari Redbord (Global Head of Policy & Government Affairs at TRM Labs) to unpack how financial crime prevention is evolving as crypto, traditional finance, and AI-driven scams collide. Ari’s path spans federal prosecution in D.C., the U.S. Treasury, sanctions and terrorism financing, giving him a rare view of where policy, investigations, and technology actually meet.

Hailey and Ari get real about what “public–private partnership” should mean in practice (spoiler: not more roundtables), and why real-time disruption networks are the model forward. They break down why “crypto crime” is a misleading label, how blockchain transparency changes investigations, and what TradFi still does better when it comes to governance and mature controls.

They also dig into the operational reality teams are wrestling with right now: AI moving faster than regulation, scams scaling with generative tooling, and the risk of falling behind if fraud and compliance don’t learn how to harness new tech without losing human judgment.

The core takeaway is simple: the threats are moving faster, across more rails, and complacency is the real risk, so the mindset has to stay Day One.

Guest lineup:

1. Ari Redbord: Global Head of Policy & Government Affairs at TRM Labs
2. Hailey Windham: Host of Fraud Forward and Community Banking Lead at Sardine

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Travis Cox, a seasoned investigator from the South Carolina Department of Corrections, to explore the alarming world of contraband cell phones in prisons. Travis shares his firsthand experience combating organized crime networks that operate from behind bars, revealing how these illicit devices have become powerful tools for orchestrating everything from financial fraud to drug trafficking. The conversation delves into high-profile cases like "Operation Iron Pipeline," where inmates used contraband phones to coordinate interstate gun and drug smuggling operations. Travis explains how collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies was crucial to cracking these complex criminal enterprises. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the creative methods inmates use to obtain phones, the economics of the prison contraband market, and the sophisticated financial crimes being perpetrated by incarcerated individuals.

This episode is a must-listen for fraud fighters, bankers, and law enforcement professionals seeking to understand the intricate connections between prison contraband and wider criminal networks. Tune in to learn how cross-sector collaboration is key to combating these evolving threats and protecting our financial systems from behind-bars fraudsters.

Roy E. Cox

District of South Carolina | Two Men Charged With Illegally Trafficking Almost 60 Guns Into Philadelphia From South Carolina | United States Department of Justice

State Grand Jurors issue rare report on continued problem of organized crime run from within state prisons using contraband cellphones - South Carolina Attorney General

FCC approves cell phone jamming against SC prison inmates | The State

Man accused of setting fire at home of South Carolina corrections officer in suspected retaliation | WBTW

Ex-prison guard, shot six times, hails FCC push to allow cellphone jamming behind bars

Nine SCDC inmates, six others indicted in $5M fraud scheme | WCBD News 2

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this compelling episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Widham is joined by Freddy Massimi, a certified Financial Crimes investigator and leader at Truist Bank, to explore the intersection of human trafficking and financial crime.

Together, they examine how financial institutions can detect and disrupt trafficking networks, drawing from recent high-profile cases and the latest FinCEN advisory updates. The conversation highlights key red flags, such as repeated hotel bookings, shared contact information across accounts, and sudden cryptocurrency transactions that fraud and AML teams should monitor.

This episode is a call to action for fraud analysts, compliance professionals, and financial crime investigators, emphasizing the importance of cross-team collaboration in combating one of today’s most urgent criminal threats.

Freddy Massimi

https://www.moneylaundering.com/

https://theknoble.com/

https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/

https://darkwatch.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/erinnordbywest_leadwithempathy-activity-7377731958514139136-t-2l?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADL1v0gBbhR2XJWVMMFSh_-v6GWlWWiI-kI

https://www-wrdw-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.wrdw.com/2025/09/25/child-sex-trafficking-survivors-get-5m-settlement-ga-hotel/?outputType=amp

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

1. https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
2. https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

The latest episode of Banking on Fraudology tackles a critical issue facing financial institutions: new ACH fraud monitoring requirements. Host Hailey Windham expertly guides listeners through NACHA's upcoming rule changes, offering a comprehensive breakdown tailored for small banks and credit unions. Windham delves into the nuances of the two-phase implementation, explaining how institutions can prepare for the March 2026 deadline without breaking the bank. She clarifies key concepts like "false pretenses" and the shift away from "commercially reasonable detection systems" to risk-based processes. The episode provides a wealth of practical advice, from conducting risk assessments and setting transaction baselines to developing effective response procedures. Windham also shares invaluable insights on vendor selection, warning listeners about common sales pitches to be wary of and offering smart questions to ask potential partners. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of tailoring monitoring approaches to an institution's specific role and risk profile. Listeners will come away with a clear action plan for compliance, including tips on policy writing and annual review processes. This episode is a must-listen for any fraud fighter looking to stay ahead of regulatory changes and strengthen their ACH fraud defenses. Tune in now to arm yourself with the knowledge and strategies you need to protect your institution and customers in the evolving landscape of ACH fraud.

https://www.nacha.org/rules/risk-management-topics-fraud-monitoring-phase-1

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
• https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

Fraudology and Banking on Fraudology are back together, this time recording in person from Austin, Texas!

We celebrate Karisse’s recent Women in Payments Award, reflect on the power of in person connections, and then dive straight into the headlines. We spotlight how AI is reshaping fraud, from autonomous “agentic AI” attacks to fraudsters hijacking X’s Grok AI to spread malicious links.

It’s part celebration, part reunion, and a deep look at what the future of fraud in the AI era means for all of us.

Karisse Hendrick

Fraudology podcast

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
• https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this groundbreaking episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham introduces an exciting new event that promises to revolutionize how the fraud, identity, and compliance industry approaches AI. Mitul Parmar, co-founder and CEO of Safeguard, joins to announce the launch of the first AI Deep Dive Retreat, taking place May 3-6, 2026 at the prestigious Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs.

This exclusive gathering aims to put fraud, identity, and compliance professionals at the center of the AI conversation, addressing the growing need for a focused community to navigate the rapid advancements in AI technology. Mitul explains how Safeguard fills a crucial gap in the industry, offering an intimate setting for practitioners to deeply explore AI's implications on their roles, teams, and the financial services sector at large.

Mitul Parmar

• Website to Learn More & Apply: www.safeguardevent.com
• LinkedIn: “@Safeguard Events” (www.linkedin.com/company/safeguardevents)

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
• https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

Host Hailey Windham and guest Jen Lamont tackle the crucial topic of creating pauses to prevent fraud in financial transactions. The conversation centers around the concept of "pause as a service," exploring how momentary interruptions can be the key to protecting members from falling victim to scams. Jen shares her expertise on training frontline staff to recognize signs of fight, flight, or freeze responses in potential victims and guides listeners through effective strategies to help members move into a state of clarity. The episode covers a wide range of practical tools, from scripting and policy implementation to physical space utilization and emotional support for both staff and members. Hayley and Jen also discuss the importance of follow-up care for scam victims, sharing valuable resources and insights on reducing shame and empowering members to protect themselves in the future. The conversation culminates in a lightning round of essential tips, including must-have scripts for tellers, key metrics for proving the value of pause strategies to leadership, and powerful messages for victims. This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone in the financial sector looking to enhance their fraud prevention tactics and create a culture of protection within their institution. Tune in to gain actionable insights that could make the difference between a member falling victim to a scam or walking away protected.

Jen L., CBSAP, CFE 

https://theknoble.com/

https://www.iafci.org/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
• https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this illuminating episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with fraud prevention expert Stephanie Macrafic, to explore the fascinating intersection of human behavior and scam prevention. Fresh off her acclaimed presentation at the ACFE Global Fraud Conference, Stephanie shares invaluable insights on using behavioral science to disrupt scammer influence and protect potential victims.

The conversation dives deep into Stephanie's journey in fraud prevention, from her early days as a bank teller to becoming a sought-after industry speaker. She reveals how her background in psychology informs her innovative approach to combating fraud, focusing on understanding the emotional and cognitive factors that make people vulnerable to scams. Stephanie and Hayley discuss practical strategies fraud fighters can implement immediately, such as creating moments of pause for potential victims and honing active listening skills to build trust and gather crucial information.

Listeners will gain a new perspective on the human element of fraud prevention, learning how to spot behavioral tells that may indicate someone is being coached by a scammer and why industry collaboration across sectors is vital for staying ahead of evolving criminal tactics. Whether you're a seasoned fraud professional or new to the field, this episode offers actionable advice for strengthening your organization's defenses against scams. Don't miss this opportunity to level up your fraud-fighting skills - tune in now and join the fight against financial crime!

Host Bio - Hailey Windham

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-macrafic/
• https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stephanie-macrafic_acfe2025-gratitude-fraudfighters-ac[…]m=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADL1v0gBbhR2XJWVMMFSh_-v6GWlWWiI-kI

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this electrifying episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with PJ Rohall, co-founder of About Fraud & Fraud Fight Club , to unpack the knockout success of their recent "Round Two" conference. PJ gives listeners an insider's look at what it takes to organize a fraud-fighting event that breaks the mold of typical industry gatherings. From curating diverse speaker lineups to crafting an atmosphere that feels more like a high-energy boxing match than a stuffy conference, PJ reveals the strategy behind Fraud Fight Club's unique approach.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges of building authentic community in the fraud prevention space, balancing serious professional content with a fun, engaging atmosphere, and empowering voices that might not typically take center stage at industry events. PJ shares candid reflections on unexpected emotional moments, logistical hurdles overcome, and lessons learned that will shape "Round Three."

The conversation also dives into broader themes around burnout in fraud-fighting careers, the need for more public awareness around scams, and PJ's vision for enlisting celebrity voices as "scamfluencers" to amplify fraud prevention messages. Whether you're a fraud-fighting veteran or new to the field, this episode offers an inspiring look at how passion, creativity and community can breathe new life into the battle against financial crime. Don't miss PJ's call for speaker and music suggestions for the next Fraud Fight Club - this is your chance to help shape the future of fraud prevention gatherings!

PJ ROHALL

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://www.fraudfightclub.com/
• https://www.about-fraud.com/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham dives deep into five recent fraud cases that every financial institution needs to know about. From a $70,000 account drain to a multi-branch fraud attempt, each story serves as a masterclass in what to do - and what not to do - when it comes to protecting customers and institutions from increasingly sophisticated scams.

Windham breaks down a troubling case where a 74-year-old man had to go public just to get reimbursed after malware-enabled hackers drained his account. She explains why relying too heavily on device matching for authentication can backfire, and offers practical advice for layering security measures. The episode also covers FinCEN's recent industry-wide meeting on digital asset fraud, highlighting the critical need for collaboration between banks, regulators, and law enforcement to stay ahead of global fraud networks.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into improving fraud prevention processes, from handling fake ID attempts and implementing "pause point" forms for risky transactions, to enhancing cross-branch communication. Windham's engaging storytelling and actionable takeaways make this a must-listen for anyone in banking, fintech, or fraud prevention. Whether you're a seasoned fraud fighter or new to the field, you'll come away with strategies you can implement immediately to strengthen your institution's defenses. Don't miss this chance to stay ahead of the latest fraud trends - tune in now and join the fight against financial crime.

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

• https://dailyhodl.com/2025/08/10/bank-of-america-refuses-to-reimburse-customer-after-hackers-hit-account-drain-70000-report/
• https://www.fincen.gov/news/news-releases/readout-fincen-convenes-public-private-partnership-promote-innovation-and
• https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/police-investigate-fraud-colorado-banks-88k-debt-boulder-account/
• https://newsregister.com/article?articleTitle=jeb-bladine-banks-add-fraud-warnings-to-cash-withdrawals--1754661407--52687--commentary
• https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2025/08/06/lynchburg-police-investigating-bank-fraud-incidents/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham and fraud expert Frank McKenna dive deep into the world of financial crime prevention. The duo tackles a wide range of questions from fraud fighters across the industry, offering invaluable insights and practical advice. From discussing the challenges of cross-industry collaboration to exploring the latest trends in synthetic identity fraud, Hailey and Frank leave no stone unturned.

One of the episode's highlights is their candid conversation about creating a fraud-savvy culture within financial institutions. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and rewarding employees who contribute to fraud prevention efforts, sharing creative ideas like Hailey's "Scooby Doo" themed awards. The hosts also address the rising threat of internal fraud, stressing the need for robust monitoring systems and a balance between trust and control.

For those starting their careers in fraud prevention, Hailey and Frank offer encouraging words, urging newcomers to inject their personality into their work and trust their instincts. They also discuss the impact of AI and deepfakes on the fraud landscape, and provide strategies for smaller institutions to compete with big banks in fraud detection. Whether you're a seasoned fraud fighter or just entering the field, this episode is packed with actionable insights to enhance your fraud prevention efforts.

Frank McKenna

https://frankonfraud.com/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Know your customer (KYC) was never designed to be fraud control, yet fraud programs across the industry treat it like one. In this episode of Fraud Forward, host Hailey Windham sits down with Steve Lenderman, Head of Fraud Prevention at iSolve, for a necessary conversation about what KYC actually does, what it can't do, and why that distinction matters more than ever.

Steve and Hailey challenge the assumption that passing KYC means an identity is safe to trust. They explore why every fraud eventually passes KYC, how synthetic identities exploit static verification, and what AI has revealed about the limitations of one-time checks. From the gap between identity existence and identity ownership to the behavioral signals that matter after onboarding, this episode reframes KYC as a starting point, not a solution.

The highlights:

1. Why every fraud eventually passes KYC
2. The gap between identity existence and identity ownership
3. Behavioral signals that matter after onboarding
4. Why AI didn't break KYC, rather how it just exposed what was already broken

Guest lineup:

1. Steve Lenderman: Head of Fraud Prevention at iSolve
2. Hailey Windham: Host of Fraud Forward and Community Banking Lead at Sardine

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham dives into a critical development in the financial fraud prevention landscape. Fresh off a cruise where she performed her fraud-prevention parody of Meghan Trainor's "No," Hailey shifts gears to discuss a major opportunity for fraud professionals to shape future policy. The CFPB, NCUA, FDIC, OCC, and the Fed have issued a joint request for information, seeking input from industry experts on how to address rising threats in digital payments fraud.

Hailey breaks down the key areas regulators are focusing on, including effective fraud prevention tools, barriers to data sharing, industry collaboration, consumer education, and regulatory gaps. She emphasizes the importance of credit unions and regional banks participating in this conversation, as their unique perspectives and challenges need representation. The host provides actionable advice for listeners, encouraging them to read the summary, discuss it with their teams, and submit comments before the September 18 deadline.

This episode serves as a rallying cry for fraud fighters to seize this rare opportunity to influence regulatory policy directly. Hailey's passion for the subject shines through as she urges listeners to elevate each other's voices and show up "smart and aligned." Don't miss this chance to make your experience count in shaping the future of fraud prevention. Listen now and prepare to make your voice heard in this crucial industry conversation.

https://americascus.widen.net/view/pdf/e03c71f0-112b-4e61-a57b-b6f8bffb6911/Interagency[…]&_hsmi=368732194&utm_content=368732194&utm_source=hs_email

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Erin O'Loughlin and Brian Svoboda-Kindle from the Association of Certified Financial Crime Specialists (ACFCS) to discuss the critical importance of ongoing education and collaboration in the fight against financial crime. As the financial landscape rapidly evolves, fraud and compliance professionals must stay ahead of emerging threats. The guests highlight how ACFCS is breaking down silos between fraud, AML, cybersecurity and compliance to create a community of experts learning from each other. They dive into the comprehensive benefits of ACFCS membership, including access to cutting-edge training, webinars, virtual events, and networking opportunities. The conversation explores the value of the Certified Financial Crime Specialist (CFCS) credential in providing a broad understanding of financial crime risks beyond just AML or fraud. Listeners will gain insights into how this certification can enhance their skills and career prospects. The episode also previews the upcoming FinCrime Virtual Week in August, promising a wealth of expert sessions on topics ranging from cryptocurrency risks to human trafficking. Whether you're new to financial crime prevention or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable guidance on leveling up your expertise and making a bigger impact.

Erin O'Loughlin

Brian Svoboda-Kindle

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this special Telethon episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham is joined by fraud-fighting heavyweights Frank McKenna and Justin Davis for a lively Q&A session tackling the biggest questions in fraud prevention. The episode kicks off with a surprise appearance by Karisse Hendrick, setting the tone for an informative yet entertaining discussion.

Guests call in with hard-hitting questions, including how to detect synthetic identities without advanced technology, what industry pressure is being applied to P2P payment apps, and what keeps these fraud experts up at night. Frank McKenna shares his deep concerns about human trafficking in Cambodia tied to fraud operations, while Justin Davis highlights the growing threat of first-party fraud. The experts also provide practical advice on presenting fraud data effectively to stakeholders and executives.

Throughout the episode, the hosts blend humor with serious insights, even fielding some prank calls along the way. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on emerging fraud trends, detection techniques, and communication strategies. Whether you're a seasoned fraud fighter or new to the field, this episode offers something for everyone.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-davis-cfe/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankmckenna/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this special 4th of July episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Kenny Aycock, a trusted risk professional and manager of risk management at All South Federal Credit Union. With over two decades of experience on federal task forces investigating violent crime and gang activity, Kenny brings a unique perspective to the world of financial fraud prevention.

The conversation explores Kenny's journey from law enforcement to credit union risk management, highlighting how his investigative skills translate to protecting members' financial freedom. Kenny shares insights on the biggest fraud threats facing credit unions today, including impersonation scams, online account takeovers, and elder financial abuse. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the industry and with law enforcement to stay ahead of evolving fraud tactics.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on defending against scams, educating the community, and leading fraud-fighting teams. Kenny's passion for protecting people shines through as he discusses using cutting-edge technology alongside old-school investigative techniques. Whether you're a fraud professional or simply interested in safeguarding your finances, this episode offers an inspiring look at the critical work being done behind the scenes to preserve financial freedom.

Kenny Aycock

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this illuminating episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Bryan Watkinson, a risk management expert from Affinity Federal Credit Union. Bryan shares his wealth of experience in operational risk, fraud prevention, and the emerging field of cannabis banking. The conversation kicks off with a look at Bryan's popular "Fraud Friday" social media posts, which break down complex fraud threats in an accessible way. Bryan reveals how these posts have become a rallying cry for other departments to embrace risk education.

The discussion then dives into the challenges of managing multiple risk verticals in a mid-sized credit union. Bryan offers invaluable insights on prioritizing threats, from cybersecurity concerns stemming from global conflicts to the day-to-day battles against check fraud and account takeovers. He emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant without overreacting, sharing strategies for keeping teams at a steady "level 4 or 5" of alertness. One of the episode's highlights is Bryan's candid take on cannabis banking, detailing how Affinity navigated this complex new terrain.

Listeners will come away with practical advice on making risk relatable across an organization, fostering transparency, and building a strong risk culture. Bryan's approach of "showing up" to branches with donuts and real conversations exemplifies his philosophy of hands-on leadership. Whether you're a seasoned risk professional or new to the field, this episode offers a masterclass in balancing vigilance with approachability. Don't miss Bryan's parting words on the power of networking and continuous learning in the fight against fraud. Tune in to gain insights that will elevate your risk management game and protect your institution.

Bryan Watkinson

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Matt O'Neill, a 25-year veteran of the US Secret Service and former managing director of their global cyber investigative operations. O'Neill shares his sobering perspective on how the United States is falling behind in fraud prevention compared to other nations. Drawing from his extensive experience leading high-stakes global takedowns and coordinating multinational operations, O'Neill highlights the urgent need for modernization in information sharing and collaboration between law enforcement and financial institutions.

The discussion delves into the limitations of current systems like 314A and 314B, which were groundbreaking when introduced but have failed to keep pace with evolving criminal tactics. O'Neill argues for leveraging modern technology to enable real-time information sharing and close critical gaps that criminals exploit. He also emphasizes the need for cross-industry collaboration, pointing out how social media platforms and telecommunications companies inadvertently enable fraud at massive scales.

Perhaps most alarmingly, O'Neill reveals how other countries are innovating faster and treating fraud with greater urgency than the US. He advocates for the creation of a national anti-scam center and increased funding for training state and local law enforcement. The episode concludes with a powerful call to action for listeners to demand better from policymakers and industry leaders. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most respected voices in the field – listen now and join the fight for a safer financial future.

Matt O'Neill

Matt's Linkedin Post

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham takes listeners inside the world of pig butchering scams and Operation Shamrock's efforts to combat them. Windham shares insights from her recent presentation at the ACFE Twin Cities Fraud Summit, where she and Erin West highlighted the growing threat of transnational organized crime syndicates. The episode focuses on Operation Shamrock's groundbreaking Survivor Series initiative, which brings victims' stories directly to financial institutions to identify vulnerabilities and prevent future scams.

Windham recounts a particularly impactful case study of a young woman who lost $160,000 in just 10 days to a sophisticated pig butchering scheme. The scam began on a dating app and quickly escalated, with the scammer using psychological manipulation tactics to build trust and isolate the victim from her bank. Key takeaways include how scammers coach victims to lie during transaction reviews, exploit distrust in financial institutions, and structure wire transfers to avoid detection. The episode also highlights the importance of educating entire families, as the victim's mother was inadvertently pulled into supporting the scam.

This episode serves as a wake-up call for banks and credit unions, emphasizing the need for greater transparency with customers about banking operations and fraud prevention measures. Windham passionately argues that financial institutions must proactively address common misconceptions about banking practices before scammers can exploit them. Listeners are challenged to consider how they can build trust and educate customers to resist manipulation attempts. Don't miss this crucial episode - tune in and join the fight against pig butchering scams.

Operation Shamrock

Join now!

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this illuminating episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Jessica Cartrette, Fraud Manager at Rev Federal Credit Union, to explore the power of collaboration in fighting financial fraud. Jessica shares her journey from retail pharmacy to becoming a fraud-fighting force, emphasizing how her frontline experience as a teller shaped her approach to fraud prevention. The conversation dives deep into Rev's groundbreaking "Knockout Fraud" event, which sparked a movement of cross-institutional cooperation in South Carolina.

Jessica reveals the strategies she used to break down silos within her organization, from engaging marketing teams to partnering with IT and cybersecurity departments. She stresses the importance of educating all departments about fraud risks and empowering frontline staff through targeted training. The episode highlights innovative initiatives like the South Carolina Fraud Ambassador Roundtable and Rev's "Shielding Seniors" program, showcasing how local efforts can have far-reaching impacts.

Listeners will gain practical insights on building fraud committees, improving interdepartmental communication, and leveraging partnerships to stay ahead of evolving threats. Jessica's passion for community education and her commitment to collaboration over competition shine through, offering inspiration for fraud fighters at all levels. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode provides actionable strategies to enhance your fraud prevention efforts. Tune in to discover how working together can create a more resilient financial ecosystem and learn why Jessica believes that in the fight against fraud, we're truly all in this together.

Jessica on LinkedIn

https://www.revfcu.com/adulting/

https://www.revfcu.com/knockout-fraud/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham takes listeners on a journey through the world of fraud prevention. She begins by sharing exciting news about the launch of her consulting firm, CU Fight Fraud LLC, dedicated to serving credit unions and community banks in their fight against fraud. Windham explains her passion for supporting these often overlooked institutions and highlights the importance of tailored fraud strategies.

The episode then takes a darker turn as Windham discusses a shocking case of internal fraud at Altana Federal Credit Union. She breaks down how the credit union's operations manager, entrusted with fraud prevention, exploited her position to embezzle over $65,000. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of internal controls and oversight in financial institutions.

Hailey offers valuable insights and actionable steps for preventing internal fraud, including regular access reviews, random audits, peer review processes, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. She emphasizes the need for collaboration between fraud teams and internal audit departments. The episode concludes with a powerful call to action for fraud fighters, urging them to remain vigilant, ask tough questions, and work together to build stronger defenses against both external and internal threats.

Tune in to Banking on Fraudology for an eye-opening discussion on the importance of internal fraud prevention and the passion that drives the fight against financial crime.

• https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/former-altana-federal-credit-union-employee-sentenced-more-1-year-prison-embezzlement-0
• https://www.cufightfraud.com/

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham continues her conversation with fraud expert Andrew Austin about a devastating crypto scam that targeted his 81-year-old father. Andrew provides a detailed breakdown of how the scam unfolded, exposing critical failures across multiple systems and organizations that allowed it to succeed. From compromised computers sold on online marketplaces to inadequate fraud detection at banks and crypto ATMs, Andrew highlights the cascade of breakdowns that left his father vulnerable.

The discussion dives deep into the technology and human elements that enable these scams, including remote access software, social engineering tactics, and a lack of awareness among frontline workers. Andrew shares his frustrating experiences trying to report the crime and work with law enforcement, revealing major gaps in how financial crimes are handled. He emphasizes the need for better training, more empathy for victims, and increased collaboration across the fraud-fighting community.

Throughout the episode, Andrew offers valuable insights on how financial institutions, crypto companies, and law enforcement can improve their fraud prevention and response. He advocates for more robust device intelligence, behavioral biometrics, and transaction monitoring, as well as policy changes to protect elderly customers. The conversation concludes with a call for fraud fighters to spread awareness whenever possible and take a more empathetic, victim-centered approach. For anyone working in fraud prevention or interested in protecting themselves and loved ones from scams, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain critical knowledge that could help stop the next fraud before it happens.

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Agentic commerce sounds futuristic, until it starts hitting your auth flows, your dispute queues, and your monitoring pipelines.

In this episode of Fraud Forward, host Hailey Windham sits down with Chen Zamir, Head of Fraud Strategy at Sardine and Founder of Native Risk, to unpack what happens when AI agents don’t just recommend, they act. They browse, click, checkout, retry, and optimize at machine speed, sometimes with no human in the loop.

Hailey and Chen break down the two flavors of agentic commerce (API/MCP-based vs. in-browser agents), then get direct about the fraud pressure that follows any new payment-adjacent product. They dig into the first typologies likely to spike, why “secure protocols” won’t solve the real problems, and the OTP timing trap that makes step-up friction feel irrelevant when the customer is asleep, offline, or busy on purpose.

They also cover the downstream damage teams aren’t modeling yet: rising abandonment, risk scores inflated by failed challenges, messier proof of intent, and a stack that struggles to separate agentic flows from everything else.

The core takeaway is simple: fraud teams need to identify, route, and manage agent-driven transactions as a distinct channel before the ecosystem forces the issue.

Guest lineup:

1. Chen Zamir: Head of Fraud Strategy at Sardine, founder of NativeRisk
2. Hailey Windham: Host of Fraud Forward and Community Banking Lead at Sardine

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham celebrates the podcast's one-year anniversary with special guest Andrew Austin, a seasoned fraud fighter and Head of Fraud Prevention at Sardine. The conversation takes a deep dive into the complex world of financial scams, account takeovers, and the cascading failures that often lead to successful fraud attempts. Andrew shares his extensive experience across various sectors, from military service to roles in banking, fintech, and crypto, offering invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of fraud prevention.

The discussion highlights the critical importance of device intelligence and behavioral biometrics in modern fraud detection. Andrew emphasizes how knowing your customer goes far beyond traditional KYC measures, stressing the need for a dynamic view of risk that considers ongoing customer behavior. The episode also tackles the challenges of data silos within organizations and the necessity of cross-departmental collaboration in effective fraud prevention.

Perhaps the most impactful segment of the episode is Andrew's deeply personal story of how his own father fell victim to a sophisticated crypto scam. This heart-wrenching account provides listeners with a stark reminder of the human cost of fraud, illustrating how even those close to fraud fighters can be vulnerable. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the lasting psychological impact of scams on victims and their families.

Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that blends professional expertise with personal experience – tune in now to gain crucial insights into the fight against financial fraud.

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In the second part of the Banking on Fraudology episode with fraud expert Marc Evans, Hailey Windham continues her riveting conversation about the many flavours of fraud. As a seasoned law enforcement professional who has cracked over 500 fraud cases, Evans shares invaluable insights into the world of financial crime and scams. The discussion dives deep into the critical importance of collaboration between banks, law enforcement, and the private sector in combating fraud effectively. Evans recounts a compelling case study where teamwork between a credit union and law enforcement thwarted a $25,000 first-party fraud attempt, demonstrating the power of information sharing.

The episode also explores Evans' inspiring initiative, Fraud Hero, which aims to educate and empower individuals, businesses, and law enforcement to prevent fraud before it happens. Evans passionately explains his mission to turn potential victims into their own heroes against scams. Listeners will gain practical advice on improving fraud prevention, including the need for ongoing customer and employee education, breaking down information silos within organizations, and staying vigilant against evolving threats like fraud-as-a-service schemes.

With predictions for future fraud trends and invaluable tips for aspiring fraud fighters, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in financial security and crime prevention. Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the field's most experienced voices - tune in now and join the fight against financial crime!

Marc Evans LinkedIn

https://fraudhero.com/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

In this captivating episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with fraud-fighting expert Marc Evans to unpack the complex world of financial scams. Drawing inspiration from the classic film Forrest Gump, they explore how fraud is like a box of chocolates - full of surprises and often bitter disappointments. Marc, a certified fraud examiner and law enforcement investigator, brings over a decade of experience to the conversation, sharing insights from his work on more than 500 fraud cases.

The episode dives deep into various fraud flavors, from romance scams that leave victims heartbroken and broke, to social engineering tactics that ooze through defenses like caramel. Marc and Hailey discuss the persistent problem of check fraud, likening it to a classic nut cluster that's still packing a punch in today's digital landscape. They also explore account takeovers and credential stuffing, comparing them to double-dipped chocolates that give criminals control with just one bite.

Throughout the conversation, Marc provides fascinating insights into the fraudster mindset, discussing what motivates criminals and how their tactics have evolved. He shares personal experiences, including how he almost lost his chance at a law enforcement career due to identity theft.

Don't miss this eye-opening exploration of financial crime - tune in now to arm yourself with knowledge and join the fight against fraud.

Connect with Marc Evans

https://fraudhero.com/

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Matt Hogan, a seasoned detective with over 16 years of experience fighting white collar and crypto crime. Matt shares his journey from investigating traditional financial crimes to tackling complex crypto fraud cases, offering invaluable insights for both law enforcement and financial institutions.

The conversation dives deep into the evolving landscape of financial crime, exploring how old-school investigative techniques still apply in the digital age. Matt emphasizes the importance of collaboration between banks and law enforcement, sharing practical tips on building strong partnerships. He recounts a touching story of a romance scam victim that changed his perspective and fueled his passion for financial crime investigations.

Matt also unpacks the latest trends in crypto-related financial crimes, from romance scams and pig butchering to sophisticated money laundering operations. He debunks common misconceptions about crypto investigations and recommends essential tools and resources for aspiring fraud fighters. The episode concludes with Matt's sage advice for newcomers to the field, stressing the importance of continuous learning, teaching others, and building a strong network.

Tune in now to arm yourself with the knowledge and inspiration to stay ahead in the fight against fraud.

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this special episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham and Fraudology podcast host Karisse Hendrick join forces to give listeners an insider's preview of the upcoming Fraud Fight Club event. The duo shares their enthusiasm for the collaborative and raw nature of this gathering of fraud fighters. They highlight key sessions to watch out for, including a powerful keynote by Representative Brandon Guffey on sextortion scams, and panels on cutting-edge topics like cyber fraud tactics, first-party fraud, and enhancing collaboration between fraud teams and law enforcement.

Hailey emphasizes the importance of networking and knowledge-sharing at events like Fraud Fight Club, encouraging attendees to connect with both industry veterans and newcomers alike. The episode provides valuable insights into the current state of fraud prevention and the innovative strategies being developed to combat increasingly sophisticated schemes.

Don't miss out on this insider's guide to one of the year's most anticipated fraud-fighting events - tune in now and get ready to take your fraud prevention skills to the next level!

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this short, but sweet episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham gives listeners an insider's preview of the upcoming Fraud Fight Club event. As a speaker at two sessions, Hailey shares her enthusiasm for the collaborative and raw nature of this gathering of fraud fighters. She highlights key sessions to watch out for, including a powerful keynote by Representative Brandon Guffey on sextortion scams, and panels on cutting-edge topics like cyber fraud tactics, first-party fraud, and enhancing collaboration between fraud teams and law enforcement.

Hailey also gives listeners a who's who of fraud-fighting experts she's eager to meet in person, including podcast partner Karisse Hendrick, fraud prevention guru Frank McKenna, and scam-fighting prosecutor Erin West. She emphasizes the importance of networking and knowledge-sharing at events like Fraud Fight Club, encouraging attendees to connect with both industry veterans and newcomers alike. The episode provides valuable insights into the current state of fraud prevention and the innovative strategies being developed to combat increasingly sophisticated schemes.

Don't miss out on this insider's guide to one of the year's most anticipated fraud-fighting events!

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this compact but powerful episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham tackles a topic that's causing major headaches for fraud teams across the country: the limitations of funds availability rules. Windham expertly breaks down how Regulation CC, created in 1987, is struggling to keep pace with the sophisticated fraud schemes of the digital age. She paints a vivid picture of the challenges facing financial institutions, from the rapid availability requirements for treasury checks to the inadequate hold periods for detecting complex fraud.

Windham's expertise shines as she dissects the "doubtful collectability" clause and explains why the current 10-day exception hold often falls short in today's fraud landscape. She addresses the difficult position fraud teams find themselves in - caught between compliance requirements, operational pressures, and their own instincts about risky transactions. But this episode isn't just about identifying problems; Windham offers a wealth of practical solutions.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into maximizing their use of exception holds, enhancing frontline staff training, leveraging new verification tools, and strategically using account structures to mitigate risks. Windham's call for breaking down silos between fraud, compliance, and operations teams is particularly poignant. The episode concludes with a rallying cry for industry-wide change and a handy "cheat sheet" of Reg CC reminders. Whether you're a fraud fighter, compliance officer, or financial institution leader, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to arm yourself with knowledge, strategies, and inspiration to better protect your institution in the face of outdated regulations.

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham welcomes back fraud expert David Maimon to dive deep into the world of treasury check fraud. As the "Indiana Jones of fraud fighters," David shares alarming insights into why these government-issued checks have become prime targets for criminals. The conversation reveals how fraudsters are exploiting verification loopholes, altering payee names, and cashing out millions in stolen funds.

David breaks down the latest trends, including the rise of first-party fraud where individuals willingly participate as money mules, and sophisticated schemes involving synthetic identities and business impersonation. Listeners will gain a sobering understanding of just how thorough and patient modern fraudsters have become in their operations.

The episode's highlight is the unveiling of Sentilink's new Treasury Check Verification Service. This game-changing tool addresses a critical gap in existing verification processes by allowing financial institutions to confirm payee names - a feature David explains has been sorely missing. With real examples of how early adopters are already preventing significant losses, this free service promises to disrupt treasury check fraud operations. Fraud fighters won't want to miss this actionable solution to a pervasive industry challenge.

Tune in to arm yourself with the latest intelligence and tools in the fight against financial crime.

David's LinkedIn

Demo Link

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham revisits a conversation between fraud expert Gil Rosenthal and Karisse Hendrick in the Fraudology Podcast that tackles pressing questions from issuers, banks, and fintechs about payment fraud and professional development. Gil and Hailey dive deep into the complexities of identifying and combating various fraud schemes, offering invaluable advice for fraud fighters across different sectors of the financial industry.

The discussion covers a wide range of topics, from understanding suspicious merchant activity to navigating career transitions in the fraud prevention space. Gil shares his expertise on interpreting unusual patterns in transaction data, emphasizing the importance of identifying abnormalities and leveraging diverse team perspectives. The hosts also explore strategies for professionals looking to transition from traditional banking roles to positions in retail or fintech fraud prevention.

One of the episode's key takeaways is the value of continuous learning and networking within the fraud prevention community. Gil and Karisse stress the importance of attending industry conferences, joining professional groups, and staying updated on emerging trends. They also offer practical advice for job seekers, including the benefits of interviewing regularly to stay sharp and maintain perspective on one's market value.

Don't miss out on this masterclass in fraud prevention – tune in now and level up your fraud-fighting skills!

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham dives deep into the pressing issue of push payment fraud that's plaguing the financial industry. Drawing insights from a recent Payments Dive article, Hailey breaks down the key takeaways from a panel discussion featuring leaders from Truist, Zelle, Google, and Nacha. With push payment fraud losses in the Americas reaching a staggering $102.6 billion in 2023, this episode couldn't be more timely.

Hailey expertly dissects the complexities of push payment scams, where criminals trick victims into sending payments by posing as legitimate entities. She highlights the delicate balance financial institutions must strike between fraud prevention and maintaining a smooth user experience. The episode explores innovative approaches to combat this growing threat, including enhanced data sharing, improved digital identity verification, and increased support for law enforcement.

Don't miss out on this essential discussion – tune in now and arm yourself with the latest strategies in the fight against push payment fraud.

Link to the article

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud programs often measure what is easiest, not what’s most important. In this episode of Fraud Forward, host Hailey Windham welcomes back Frank McKenna for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about the realities fraud leaders are facing today.

Frank and Hailey dig into where fraud hides in plain sight, why so many losses are misclassified as credit risk, and how institutions consistently overreact to trends while underinvesting in the fraud already hitting their balance sheets. They explore the role AI is truly playing in fraud today, where it adds value, where it falls short, and why humans must remain firmly in the loop.

From loan fraud and credit washing to insider threats, identity overinvestment, and the long-term impact of bad fraud decisions on customers and employees, this episode challenges comfortable assumptions and legacy thinking. It is a candid discussion about what fraud teams need to stop doing, what they need to do differently, and how fraud is becoming an existential issue for financial institutions.

Guest lineup:

1. Frank McKenna: Chief Fraud Strategist, Co-Founder at Point Predictive
2. Hailey Windham: Host of Fraud Forward and Community Banking Lead at Sardine

Links:

1. Frank on Fraud
2. No Brakes, No Limits. Our Fraud Predictions For 2026 - Frank on Fraud

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

This episode of Banking on Fraudology tackles the pressing issue of financial exploitation with host Hailey Windham and guest expert Sarah Barnhill from Western Bank. Sarah brings her extensive experience in fraud prevention to shed light on the complexities of financial exploitation and how financial institutions can better protect vulnerable customers.

The discussion covers a wide range of topics, from identifying red flags and common fraud schemes to the importance of empathy and active listening when dealing with victims. Sarah shares valuable insights on creating a supportive environment for victims to come forward, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding in these sensitive situations. The episode also delves into practical strategies for securing compromised accounts, pursuing recoveries, and collaborating with law enforcement. One of the key takeaways is the importance of ongoing education and training for front-line staff to recognize and respond effectively to potential fraud.

Sarah and Hailey also discuss the role of bank culture in ensuring vulnerable individuals are treated with dignity and respect during fraud investigations. This episode is packed with actionable advice and compassionate approaches that can help financial institutions improve their response to financial exploitation.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of financial exploitation and learn how to make a real difference in combating fraud.

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Sarah Barnhill

https://www.identitytheft.gov/

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

In this episode of Banking on Fraudology, Hailey Windham and Tracy Swaim, AARP Wyoming's Fraud Fighter of the Year, explore the often-overlooked connection between volunteering and effective fraud prevention. Tracy shares her journey from the legal field to fraud investigations, and how her volunteer work with AARP's Fraud Watch Network has given her a unique perspective on fighting fraud. This episode is packed with insights on balancing data analysis with real-world experience, and how understanding the human impact of fraud can make investigators more effective.

The conversation covers a range of critical topics, including how to turn raw fraud data into actionable strategies, the importance of tailoring fraud prevention messages to different audiences, and practical ways for fraud fighters to make a bigger impact in their communities. Tracy introduces an innovative analogy comparing data visualization to giving a house tour, offering a fresh way to think about presenting complex information. The episode also dives into the power of storytelling in fraud prevention, explaining how real victim stories can be more impactful than statistics alone.

One of the key takeaways from this episode is the transformative effect that volunteering can have on a fraud fighter's perspective and skills. Tracy explains how interacting with real fraud victims has enhanced her investigative abilities and reinforced the importance of thorough investigations. For fraud professionals at any stage of their career, this episode offers valuable advice on finding volunteer opportunities, educating communities about fraud risks, and leveraging these experiences to become more effective in their roles.

Tune in now and discover how volunteering can revolutionize your approach to fraud prevention!

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

Join Hailey Windham on Banking on Fraudology as she welcomes Becky Holmes, whose book "Keanu Reeves is Not In Love with You" takes a humorous yet poignant look at online romance fraud. This episode dives deep into the psychology of scammers and their victims, revealing how fraudsters isolate their targets and exploit human tendencies to trust.

Becky shares memorable interactions with scammers, including hilarious anecdotes that showcase her wit while highlighting red flags everyone should watch for. The discussion takes a serious turn as they explore the stigma surrounding fraud victims and the inadequate response from banks and law enforcement. Becky emphasizes the need for improved customer service in financial institutions and better training for staff to recognize potential fraud victims.

The episode also touches on the scale of the problem, with both host and guest agreeing that current statistics likely vastly underestimate the true extent of romance fraud. Listeners will gain valuable insights into protecting themselves and their loved ones from these scams, including the importance of maintaining close relationships and open communication.

Tune in now to arm yourself with knowledge and maybe even a few laughs along the way.

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Becky Holmes

Keanu Reeves is not in love with you

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About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine

The latest episode of Banking on Fraudology brings listeners a comprehensive look at the state of financial fraud in 2024 and beyond. Hailey Windham sits down with returning guest Karen Boyer, a seasoned fraud expert, to unpack the year's biggest trends and peer into the crystal ball for 2025. Boyer paints a picture of a fraud landscape that remains stubbornly familiar, with check fraud, mail theft, and social engineering scams continuing to plague financial institutions and their customers. However, she notes a disturbing trend of fraudsters becoming bolder, showing up in person at bank branches to execute their schemes.

The conversation delves into the technological arms race between banks and fraudsters, with Boyer discussing how financial institutions are harnessing AI and machine learning to detect fraud. She acknowledges the frustrating reality that banks often lag behind criminals in deploying new technologies due to regulatory requirements and internal processes. Windham and Boyer stress the importance of empowering frontline bank staff, arguing that tellers should be viewed not as easily replaceable but as critical guardians against fraud. They discuss the need for better training and support to help staff navigate difficult conversations with customers about suspicious transactions.

Looking to the future, Boyer predicts several concerning trends for 2025, including an increase in in-person fraud schemes targeting vulnerable individuals, the expansion of sextortion scams to older populations, and the potential for more "glitch" exploits similar to recent incidents at major banks. She emphasizes the need for a holistic, industry-wide approach to fraud prevention that extends beyond banks to include social media platforms, telecoms, and other sectors that inadvertently facilitate scams.

Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of financial crime.

Episode links:

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/nigerian-man-extradited-us-alleged-sextortion-south-carolina-teen-died-rcna189475

Karen Boyer

About Hailey Windham:

As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees.

Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size.

Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/