But the super panel could be costly and complicated
The ABI is considering forming a panel of approved fraud investigators.
According to market insiders, the ABI is looking at accrediting fraud investigators and "forming a super panel of around 20 firms".
A source close to the ABI said:
"The formation of a panel of fraud investigators is one option the ABI is considering."
But the source added that there are a number of obstacles to surmount before the ABI could implement such a panel.
"There is the whole issue of how would the ABI police accredited firms, there would be a big cost involved.
"If the ABI were to put together a panel of investigators, then, yes, it would be put out to tender."
The source said that a fraud investigators panel was "only one of a number of options" the ABI anti-fraud committee was considering at present.
But a leading insurance fraud investigation company said that it was getting "very positive feedback" from the ABI with regard to the issue of accrediting fraud investigators.
The ABI is currently looking at a range of initiatives as it seeks to centralise the insurance industry's battle against fraud.
Last month, it was revealed that the ABI was considering establishing the UK equivalent of the US National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Members of the ABI's anti-fraud committee are liaising with the NICB as they look into the feasibility of launching a similar body in the UK.
The recent RAC Auto Windscreens case highlighted the industry's need to unite in its fight against fraud.
Fitters at RAC Auto Windscreens were recently found to have been billing insurers for repairs that they had not carried out.
ABI head of financial crime prevention Debra Weekes said: "The RAC case was a typical example of a situation that needed central handling."
