National Fraud Initiative - Information for RQIA Employees

Data matching involves comparing computer records held by one body against other computer records held by the same or another body to see how far they match.  This is usually personal information.  Computerised data matching allows fraudulent claims and payments to be identified.  Where a match is found it indicates that there may be an inconsistency that requires further investigation.  No assumption can be made as to whether there is fraud, error or other explanation until an investigation is carried out.

The Comptroller and Auditor General currently requires us to participate in a data matching exercise to assist in the prevention and detection of fraud.  We are required to provide particular sets of data to the Comptroller and Auditor General for matching.  This exercise will take place in October 2010.  Details are set out in the NIAO website.

The use of data by the Comptroller and Auditor General in a data matching exercise is carried out with statutory authority.  It does not require the consent of the individuals concerned under the Data Protection Act 1998.  Data matching by the Comptroller and Auditor General is subject to a Code of Practice.  This may be found at NIAO's website.

For further information on the Comptroller and Auditor General’s legal powers and the reasons why he matches particular information, see the Level 3 notice on the NIAO website.

For further information on data matching at RQIA contact Finance Manager, Jonathan_King.