In total, 70 public bodies across Wales took part in the latest NFI check.

BBC: Fraud detection scheme nets ?4.5m

The auditor general said since NFI began, it had led to the elimination of many long-standing, high-value frauds.

BBC: Wales

He said work was under way to broaden the NFI exercise into other areas that are susceptible to fraud.

BBC: Wales

The National Fraud Initiative (NFI) detected fraudulent over-payments and resulted in 54 successful prosecutions, said the auditor general for Wales.

BBC: Wales

Another lender, NovaStar Financial (nyse: NFI - news - people ), says it is considering putting itself up for sale.

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"The NFI has been vital in identifying and combating fraud, its long term value for the public sector has become immeasurable, " added Mr Colman.

BBC: Fraud detection scheme nets ?4.5m

The NFI scheme brings together bodies such as councils, the emergency services, health trusts and the Welsh Assembly Government to compare data held on claims for benefits, rent, pension payments, student awards and death records.

BBC: Fraud detection scheme nets ?4.5m