Part of the reason why fraud can go undetected and unreported for lengths of time is the fact that it can occur in so many different forms. Usually, though, fraud will fall into three categories: asset misappropriation (stealing or misusing company resources and/or cash), financial statement fraud (misrepresenting information on company financial reports), and corruption (using one’s own or the company’s influence for personal benefit).
Everyone in the organization should be made aware of these different types of fraud and what the red flags are for each.
Effective fraud awareness training is critical when it comes to the prevention and detection of fraud in the workplace. Whilst it’s true that no-one likes to think their employees or colleagues can commit a fraud offense, ensuring that a proper anti-fraud training plan is put in place is far easier and more effective than trying to recover losses after fraud has taken place. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to corporate fraud and corruption.
