CIFAS MARKER REMOVAL

CIFAS MARKER REMOVAL

We have been receiving a growing number of enquiries from individuals adversely affected by a CIFAS Marker and seeking advice on how to remove it.

In some scenarios, a CIFAS Marker can be wrongfully applied, causing an unfair and hugely detrimental impact on the affected individual due to its wide-ranging, complex and adverse consequences.

Below, we examine what a CIFAS Marker is and what steps can be taken to try and remove it.

WHAT IS CIFAS?

CIFAS stands for the “Credit Industry Fraud Avoidance System”. According to their website, it is a not-for-profit fraud prevention membership organisation comprising representatives from all sectors.

CIFAS claims to be the UK’s leading fraud prevention service, managing the largest database of instances of fraudulent conduct. It is essentially a data-sharing organisation whose stated purpose is to reduce instances of fraud and financial crime.

WHAT IS A CIFAS MARKER?

A CIFAS Marker is basically a mark placed against an individual by a financial institution that suspects fraudulent activity. However, individuals can also end up with a CIFAS Marker against their name if they have been victims of fraud.

The purpose of the CIFAS Marker is to warn other financial institutions about that individual. These markers are registered in a database and can be stored for up to six years.

There are a variety of different types of CIFAS Markers.

HOW CAN A CIFAS MARKER AFFECT ME?

In summary, the effects of having a CIFAS Marker against your name can be serious.

Given that the CIFAS Marker will be viewed in an adverse way, appearing on the CIFAS database can have a very negative and pervasive effect on an individual’s ability to form a relationship with a financial institution (e.g. open a bank account), and even prevent an individual from obtaining a job in some professions (including the civil service).

HOW CAN I REMOVE A CIFAS MARKER?

The key to removing a CIFAS Marker is to initially target the CIFAS Marker database.

The first step will be making a Data Subject Access Request (“DSAR”) against CIFAS. A DSAR is a way for consumers to utilise Data Protection law to make a legally supported request to remove their personal data and information from companies processing such information.

The DSAR results can then be analysed to establish which financial institution requested that the CIFAS Marker be added. At this stage, it may also be beneficial to make a DSAR against the relevant financial institution, in order to understand why they have assigned a CIFAS Marker in your name.

The next step is to make appropriate, bespoke and targeted representations to the relevant financial institution, requesting the removal of the CIFAS Marker. If the request for removal is denied, there is a right of appeal through CIFAS.

If the appeal process via CIFAS is not successful, then a complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service, and even litigation, can be considered.

Here are a couple of examples of how we achieved a successful outcome in such matters:

• Gherson succeeds in removing CIFAS maker in client’s name
• Another CIFAS removal success – Gherson successfully removes CIFAS maker in our client’s name

We have also written on this topic, including the following article:

Challenging a crypto-related CIFAS Marker: what you can do

In May 2025, we explored how CIFAS Markers linked to cryptocurrency activity are becoming increasingly common, and how one can challenge a wrongfully imposed CIFAS marker in these circumstances.

What is a CIFAS Marker and how likely is it to be unfairly imposed?

We have examined what CIFAS is, the role it plays and the safeguards that exist to prevent unfair outcomes. In conclusion, we have explained the steps that can be taken when a CIFAS Marker has been applied incorrectly.

What is a SIRA Marker and can it be challenged?

In October 2025, we examined what a SIRA Marker is, how individuals can find out if they are subject to one and how to challenge a SIRA Marker if one is imposed.

HOW GHERSON CAN HELP

Our experienced team provides comprehensive legal support to individuals affected by CIFAS Markers, including:

• Advising on the nature of the CIFAS Marker and its potential impact on your financial standing and professional opportunities;
• Assisting with submitting Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs) to identify the source and basis of the Marker;
• Analysing the evidence relied upon by financial institutions to assess whether the Marker has been fairly or lawfully applied;
• Preparing and submitting detailed representations to the relevant financial institution requesting the removal of the CIFAS Marker;
• Advising on and pursuing appeals through CIFAS if the initial removal requests are refused;
• Assisting with complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service and, where necessary, advising on litigation;
• Supporting you through any related issues, including account closures, reputational concerns or employment implications.

WHY CHOOSE GHERSON?

• Specialist expertise: we have extensive experience advising on CIFAS Markers, financial crime allegations and complex regulatory matters;
• Strategic and discreet: we handle sensitive matters with care, protecting your reputation whilst pursuing the most effective resolution;
• Tailored approach: every case is different. We develop bespoke strategies based on the specific circumstances and evidence;
• End-to-end support: we will guide you through every stage of the process, from initial advice and DSARs through to appeals, complaints or litigation.

CONTACT US

If you have been affected by a CIFAS Marker or believe one has been applied unfairly, contact Gherson today. Our team provides strategic advice to assist you with addressing the CIFAS Marker and protecting your position.