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JUNIOR LEVEL

Describe a project where you had to investigate a potential fraudulent claim.

Claims Examiner Interview Questions
Describe a project where you had to investigate a potential fraudulent claim.

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a Claims Examiner, I encountered a project where I had to investigate a potential fraudulent claim. It was a fire insurance claim where the policyholder was requesting a substantial settlement. I started by reviewing the claim documents and noticed some inconsistencies in the reported incident. I reached out to the policyholder to gather more information and asked for supporting documents. During the investigation, I analyzed the policyholder's financial records, interviewed witnesses, and inspected the property. I also collaborated with law enforcement agencies to obtain any additional evidence. After a thorough investigation, it became clear that the policyholder had intentionally set fire to the property to collect the insurance money. I compiled a detailed report with all the evidence and presented it to the senior examiners. As a result, the claim was denied, and legal actions were taken against the policyholder.

A more solid answer

During my time as a Claims Examiner, I handled a complex fraudulent claim investigation. The claim involved a policyholder seeking compensation for water damage in their property. I started by carefully examining the claim documents and noticed several discrepancies in the reported incident. To gather more information, I proactively reached out to the policyholder and conducted a detailed interview. This allowed me to identify conflicting statements and inconsistencies. I then analyzed the policyholder's financial records to assess their financial stability and motive for fraud. Simultaneously, I collaborated with external experts to evaluate the extent of the alleged damage. Through effective communication and persuasion, I secured permission to inspect the property and collected physical evidence. To further bolster my case, I reviewed relevant insurance policies and industry regulations, specific to water damage claims. After compiling all the evidence, I presented my findings to the senior examiners, outlining the policyholder's fraudulent intentions. The claim was promptly denied, preventing the company from incurring substantial financial losses.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's data analysis, effective communication, critical thinking, and time management skills. It demonstrates their ability to identify discrepancies, gather evidence, and apply knowledge of insurance industry regulations. However, the answer could still be improved by discussing record-keeping and further emphasizing the importance of time management in a fraud investigation project.

An exceptional answer

In my experience as a Claims Examiner, I successfully investigated a fraudulent claim involving a staged car accident. The claimant reported a collision with another vehicle and provided supporting documentation, including police reports and medical bills. To investigate further, I meticulously reviewed all relevant documents, including the accident report and medical records. I noticed inconsistencies in the claimant's statements and the order of medical treatments. Leveraging my strong data analysis skills, I cross-referenced the medical records with the police report and discovered that the claimant had visited a chiropractor before the reported accident date. This indicated a pre-existing condition and raised suspicions. To validate my findings, I coordinated with the insurance company's special investigation unit and obtained surveillance footage from nearby cameras. Analyzing the footage, I identified discrepancies with the claimant's account and the actual events. Through effective communication with the investigation team, I obtained statements from witnesses who confirmed the staged accident. With a comprehensive report and strong evidence, I presented my findings to the senior examiners and recommended the denial of the claim. The exposure to this fraudulent claim allowed me to sharpen my skill set in data analysis, effective communication, critical thinking, time management, and deepened my understanding of fraud investigation procedures within the insurance industry.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides extensive details about the candidate's data analysis, effective communication, critical thinking, and time management skills. It showcases their ability to identify inconsistencies, collaborate with external teams, obtain surveillance footage, and gather statements from witnesses. The answer also highlights the candidate's deep understanding of fraud investigation procedures within the insurance industry. It is thorough, compelling, and demonstrates exemplary performance in investigating fraudulent claims.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with common types of insurance fraud and understand the red flags to look out for during an investigation.
  • Research the industry-specific regulations and procedures related to claims processing to confidently discuss them during the interview.
  • Practice analyzing complex documents and identifying inconsistencies or discrepancies.
  • Develop your skills in effective communication and persuasion techniques, as these are crucial when interacting with policyholders, witnesses, and external experts.
  • Improve your knowledge of data analysis techniques, especially in relation to financial records and medical documentation.
  • Enhance your critical thinking abilities by practicing scenario-based problem-solving.
  • Learn about the role of technology in fraud investigation and familiarize yourself with relevant software and tools used in the industry.
  • During your preparation, reflect on past experiences where you demonstrated skills relevant to investigating fraudulent claims and be ready to discuss them in detail.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Data analysis
  • Effective communication
  • Critical thinking
  • Time management
  • Basic knowledge of insurance industry

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