Contractor Fraud in CAT Claims: Schemes, Networks, and Investigative Strategies

May 13, 2026 

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Speaker: Supervisory Special Agent Gus Hitz (NICB), Special Agent Audrey Mehler (NICB), and Brenda Roberts (West Bend Insurance)

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Overview:
This webinar examines how contractor fraud escalates following catastrophic events and how organized actors exploit high-volume claim environments. Participants will learn how fraud schemes evolve from opportunistic to coordinated operations and how to identify, investigate, and disrupt these activities.

Session Objective:
Participants will be able to identify contractor fraud schemes earlier and apply investigative strategies to mitigate loss exposure.

Key Topics:

• Post-cat contractor fraud landscape (roofing, water mitigation, remediation)

• Organized vs. opportunistic contractor fraud

• Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse and claim inflation tactics

• Use of AI and digital tools in claim manipulation

• Indicators of collusion between contractors, public adjusters, and claimants

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Click here to register.

Vehicle and Property Fire Investigations

May 20, 2026 

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Speaker: Dean Hensley of Waller County Fire Marshal's Office

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Class Description:

Live from the North Texas Chapter International Association of Special Investigation Units (IASIU) “Don’t Mess with Texas” Seminar

Join Dean Hensley for an in-depth look at the fundamentals and real-world application of fire investigation in both vehicle and property losses. This session will walk attendees through how fire marshals and investigators determine origin and cause, identify indicators of fraud, and navigate the complexities of fire scenes across both public and private sectors.

Designed for SIU professionals, adjusters, and investigators, this course blends practical insight with case-driven learning. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of burn patterns, fire behavior, and investigative processes—along with how to recognize red flags tied to insurance fraud.

Whether you’re new to fire investigations or looking to sharpen your expertise, this session delivers actionable knowledge you can apply immediately in the field.

What you’ll learn:

• The role of fire marshals and how investigations are conducted

• Common motives behind fire and insurance fraud

• Key differences between government and private investigations

• Interpreting fire damage and burn patterns in structures and vehicles

• Real case studies and investigative outcomes

• Classification and types of fires

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn directly from an experienced fire marshal and enhance your investigative skillset.

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Click here to register.

CIFI Exam Prep

June 3, 2026 

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Speaker: Jolene Nell of TruStage

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If you are considering taking the CIFI exam, you do not want to miss this FREE training event!

Join the Certification Team for a one-hour, live training webinar designed to prepare you to earn your CIFI designation and enhance your knowledge as a SIU Investigator. This concise, high-impact session reviews key subject areas covered on the exam, highlights core investigative concepts, and reinforces essential legal, ethical, and procedural standards. Participants gain clarity on exam structure, question formats, and effective test-taking strategies—ensuring they are prepared to sit for the CIFI exam.
Ideal for SIU professionals ready to earn the CIFI designation, this one-hour preparation course sharpens knowledge, strengthens readiness, and positions candidates for success as they take the next step in advancing their fraud investigation expertise.

BONUS:  Current CIFI holders may attend this training and earn a 1-hour credit towards their CIFI Recertification requirement!

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Click here to register.

Inside the Scheme: Predatory Contracting, Kickbacks, and Collusive Fraud Network

June 17, 2026 

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Speaker: Supervisory Special Agent Gus Hitz and Special Agent Audrey Mehler of the NICB

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Overview:
This session takes a deeper investigative dive into contractor fraud schemes involving predatory practices, financial incentives, and collusive networks. The focus is on uncovering how these operations function behind the scenes and how investigators can build defensible cases.

Session Objective:
Participants will gain the ability to recognize complex fraud networks and develop stronger, evidence-based cases for prosecution or denial.

Key Topics:

• Kickback schemes and referral networks

• Phantom repairs and inflated invoices

• Hostage property and pressure tactics

• Contractor + attorney + medical provider collusion

• Financial trails and documentation strategies

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Click here to register.