Leading the Charge Against Freight Fraud

Fraud ranks as the top concern in the freight brokerage industry, posing significant risks to logistics professionals, shippers and supply chains alike. As fraudulent schemes evolve and grow more sophisticated, staying ahead of these threats is more important than ever for industry leaders.

Recognizing this urgent need, the TIA is leading the charge on this issue. Our newest initiative—a dedicated Fraud Education track at the 2025 TIA conference—aims to equip the industry with the knowledge, tools and strategies necessary to combat the rising tide of freight fraud. This new track builds on the high engagement seen at the 2024 Capital Ideas conference, where fraud-related sessions were ranked among the highest attended sessions. The growing interest and participation in these sessions reflect a collective understanding within the industry that collaboration and education are essential in addressing the problem.

Fraud in freight brokerage is not only a financial threat but also a reputational one. The damage caused by fraudulent activities can ripple through supply chains, causing disruptions, financial losses and strained relationships with clients and partners. As fraudsters become more adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in the digital and physical aspects of logistics, it is vital for freight brokers to remain vigilant and proactive. Therefore, for the 2025 Capital Ideas Conference, TIA put Fraud Education at the forefront of this year’s conference.

The 2024 Conference: Laying the Foundation for a Fraud-Focused Future

The decision to introduce a dedicated Fraud Education track stems from the success and impact of the 2024 TIA conference, where fraud was a central theme. Two of the general sessions at the 2024 event specifically focused on fraud, underscoring the severity of the issue. One of these sessions featured the TIA Fraud Task Force, a specialized panel composed of industry experts who are actively working to combat fraudulent activities in freight brokerage. This task force is a vital resource, offering insights into the latest fraud trends and prevention strategies, while also advocating for stronger industry-wide measures to address the growing threat.

The second session on fraud at the 2024 conference focused on the shipper’s perspective, offering a unique view on how fraud impacts the broader logistics ecosystem. Shippers, like freight brokers, face significant risks from fraud, and their experiences offer critical lessons for the industry. This session highlighted the interconnectedness of stakeholders in the freight brokerage space and how combating fraud requires a collaborative approach that engages all parties involved.

The overwhelming response to these sessions made it clear that fraud is top of mind for many industry professionals. As a result, the TIA programs committee recognized the need for an entire education track devoted to this critical issue. This new track will allow for a deeper dive into the specific challenges and solutions related to fraud in freight brokerage, ensuring that attendees leave the 2025 conference better prepared to face these threats.

Why a Fraud Education Track?

Freight brokerage is a complex industry, where logistics professionals must balance the efficient movement of goods with the constant risk of fraud. As the industry becomes increasingly digitalized, fraudsters are finding new and inventive ways to exploit vulnerabilities in the supply chain. From unauthorized double brokering, spoofing, and identity theft, the range of fraud risks is expanding, making it crucial for brokers to stay informed and vigilant.

Fraud presents a unique challenge in the freight brokerage industry because of its multifaceted nature. Criminals are becoming more sophisticated, employing advanced techniques such as fictitious pickups, phishing, email/virus, inbound phone calls and text messages to carry out their schemes. The financial impact of these activities is staggering, with the TIA and U.S. Department of Transportation estimating that cargo theft alone results in losses exceeding $30 billion annually. This figure doesn’t account for the broader spectrum of fraud affecting the industry, which includes double brokering, invoice manipulation and other deceptive practices that can cripple a business.

The new Fraud Education track at the 2025 TIA conference is designed to provide freight brokers with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay one step ahead of these criminals. By addressing both the technological and operational aspects of fraud, the track will offer a comprehensive view of the threat landscape and provide actionable strategies for prevention and mitigation.

Sessions at the 2025 Conference: Equipping the Industry with Knowledge

The Fraud Education track will feature a series of sessions that cover various facets of fraud prevention and response. These sessions are tailored to equip attendees with the latest insights and practical solutions to protect their businesses.

• High-Tech Heists: The New Threat to Cargo Theft
• Fortifying Freight: Insights from cybersecurity leadership in logistics
• Eliminating fraud in your inbox
• Fraud and the Impact on the Freight Industry

A Critical Initiative for the Future of Freight Brokerage

Fraud in the freight industry is evolving at a rapid pace, and the financial losses associated with it are staggering. TIA’s decision to create a dedicated Fraud Education track at its 2025 conference is a forward-thinking move that will help industry professionals stay ahead of the curve. By offering in-depth sessions that address the technological and operational aspects of fraud, TIA is empowering freight brokers to protect their businesses and ensure the security of the supply chain.

As the 2025 conference approaches, freight brokers and logistics professionals will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of fraud prevention, learn from industry leaders and collaborate with peers to develop solutions that can mitigate fraud risks. TIA’s proactive approach to addressing fraud in the freight industry is essential for fostering a more secure and resilient logistics ecosystem.Bottom of Form

Baker is TIA’s director of Education. For more information on professional development options from TIA, you can reach Baker at baker@tianet.org.