Cyprus AFCOS campaign urges public to report suspected EU funding fraud

Nicosia, Cyprus. The National Anti-Fraud Co-ordination Service of Cyprus (AFCOS) has begun a public awareness drive urging people to flag suspected misuse of EU funding. The campaign seeks to safeguard public money and strengthen transparency.

Protecting funding for public benefit

According to AFCOS Cyprus, the campaign explains how citizens can recognise potential misuse and submit reports, alongside outlining the service’s duties in protecting the EU’s financial interests.

The service notes that EU resources finance projects, programmes and initiatives supporting development in Cyprus and improvements to daily life. It describes their proper management as a public-interest issue, since fraud and irregularities risk taking money away from activities that benefit society.

Concerns that can be reported

AFCOS Cyprus says anyone holding information or reasonably suspecting fraud or irregularities connected with an EU-financed project, programme or activity may make a report.

Examples identified by the service include false or falsified documentation, invoices that are fictitious or inflated, financing the same expense twice, conflicts of interest and improper spending of European funds.

The service says reporting does not require proof that fraud or any other offence occurred. Information or reasonable grounds for suspicion warranting examination by the relevant authorities are enough.

Online reporting and confidentiality

According to the service, reports may be filed electronically by visiting the official AFCOS Cyprus website and choosing its complaints submission section.

AFCOS Cyprus says individuals may provide their names, with personal details kept confidential, or report anonymously without revealing their identity.