Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts – Boston, MA

Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts (IFB)

The Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts (IFB) is a specialized investigative agency located in the Financial District of Boston. Established by statute in 1990, the IFB represents a unique partnership between the insurance industry and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its primary mission is to prevent, detect, and investigate insurance fraud, including automobile and workers’ compensation fraud. While it is funded by insurance carriers, the IFB possesses law enforcement powers and works closely with District Attorneys and the Attorney General’s office to prosecute offenders.

Investigative Functions

The Bureau handles complex investigations involving:

• Automobile Fraud: Staged accidents, inflated injury claims, and false theft reports.
• Workers’ Compensation Fraud: Employee malingering, premium evasion by employers, and provider fraud.
• Premium Evasion: Businesses misrepresenting their payroll or operations to lower insurance costs.

Reporting and Access

The IFB operates a Hotline and an online portal for the public and industry professionals to report suspected fraud anonymously. The office at 101 Arch Street serves as the administrative and investigative headquarters. As it is located in a private office tower, general public access is restricted and controlled by building security. Visitors typically require an appointment. The Bureau also conducts public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the cost of insurance fraud.