SQL Strategies for Transaction Fraud: Six Patterns That Actually Work

While organizations increasingly pursue complex machine learning and graph database solutions, this guide demonstrates that well-crafted SQL queries often outperform sophisticated algorithms for fraud detection. The six patterns presented—from velocity analysis to impossible travel detection—are immediately applicable across payment systems, healthcare claims, and e-commerce platforms, making this essential knowledge for data teams and fraud analysts. By focusing on fundamental transaction patterns rather than algorithmic complexity, teams can build effective fraud detection systems using existing infrastructure and tools.