Last week the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) launched a new Victim Portal and website. The Portal is a secure and user-friendly online platform designed to enhance communication and support for victims impacted by SFO-investigated fraud.
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is responsible for investigating cases of serious fraud and complex financial crimes and works in partnership with police services in Ontario and across Canada. The SFO receives referrals from municipal and provincial police services in Ontario. It does not receive direct referrals from members of the public.
The Portal streamlines the SFO efforts in providing accessible, effective, and confidential resources for those impacted by fraud. Individuals who are a victim of fraud that is under SFO investigation will be invited by a victim liaison to access the Portal.
The SFO recognizes the impact that fraud has on individuals and is committed to ensuring they receive a high standard of support according to the principles of the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights.
To align with their commitment, the Portal offers victims a streamlined way to access critical information, communicate directly with victim liaisons, stay informed about the status of their cases and receive information about their rights and the resources available to them. It also allows for victim liaisons to efficiently communicate important updates about ongoing cases to many victims simultaneously.
The Portal was developed through a collaborative effort with victim liaisons, fraud investigators, Crown prosecutors, and technology experts to ensure that the platform meets the unique needs of those impacted by fraud.
In addition to the Portal, general members of the public can view the new SFO website that offers valuable resources about fraud, how to report fraud, victims’ rights and the criminal justice system. To access the new informative website visit sfo.opp.ca.
Both the Victim Portal and the website have been designed to be mobile-friendly, to ensure information can be accessed whenever and wherever needed.
“As fraud continues to present a significant risk to our community, we are introducing new innovations to better serve those who have been victimized. Together with our partners at the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Ontario Provincial Police is pleased to introduce an online Victim Portal and dedicated SFO website that will make it easier for victims of serious fraud investigations to stay up to date with their case progress and to find helpful resources,” said OPP Detective Superintendent Mike Bickerton.
