A CIFAS marker is a warning placed on your record in the National Fraud Database (NFD). It is recorded by a bank, lender, insurer, or other institution when they believe you have been linked to alleged fraud or financial crime.
A CIFAS marker is not a criminal conviction. However, it is a powerful entry in the database that can be seen by all CIFAS member organisations, including banks, building societies, insurers, telecoms companies, and even some public sector bodies.
Having a CIFAS marker can significantly affect your ability to:
- Open or maintain bank accounts
- Access loans, mortgages, or credit cards
- Obtain insurance or mobile phone contracts
- Secure employment in regulated industries where background checks are carried out
Markers are applied for up to six years and can seriously disrupt your financial and professional life. For this reason, they must only be applied where there is clear, relevant, and rigorous evidence of fraud or dishonest intent.
Importantly, markers can be challenged and removed if they have been applied unfairly, disproportionately, or without proper evidence.
