A group of major insurers have joined a new global body escalating the fight against fraud.

International Insurance Fraud Council founding members include representatives from Allstate, Allianz UK, AIG, Zurich UK, Liberty Mutual Global Risk Solutions, MetLife Brazil, Munich Re, Gen Re and Adica Insurance.

The Global Insurance Fraud Summit (GIFS) announced the council’s formation ahead of its next event in Panama City from October 11-14.

“This will not be a ceremonial advisory board. It will be an action-oriented industry council helping GIFS identify emerging threats, shape priorities, strengthen international collaboration, and guide actionable programs and deliverables that support the global fight against insurance fraud,” organisers said on LinkedIn.

Criminal networks exploit borders, fragmented information and disconnected markets, and fighting them requires stronger collaboration among insurers, industry organisations, law enforcement, governments and international partners, they say.

“The International Insurance Fraud Council will help ensure that the voice, experience and priorities of the insurance industry are at the centre of that effort.”