Fraud is an ever-present threat that Atlanta businesses need to carefully guard against to ensure the organization does not lose thousands of dollars to bad actors. Although it can be difficult to believe a manager or employee would commit such activities, the unfortunate reality is that it happens more than most want to admit. To limit the potential for criminal activities, it is essential for organizations to implement anti-fraud controls and conduct periodic reviews to ensure maximum effectiveness. This is especially important when one considers the findings in the ACFE’s Occupational Fraud 2022: Report to the Nations. In nearly half of the analyzed cases, fraud occurred either because of the lack of internal controls or due to deceptive efforts to override existing preventative measures.
Establishing internal and other fraud controls is only one part of the equation. Management also needs to pay attention to the behavioral warnings signs that something illegal may be occurring. Since the average length of most fraud is 12 months or longer, it is likely that one, or more, of the behavioral red flags, will present. When an employee suddenly starts living beyond their means, faces financial difficulties, has a close relationship with a vendor, or exhibits control issues, it is often a bad sign. To help clients, prospects, and others, Wilson Lewis has provided a summary of key details below.
Ensuring an organization is protected from fraud is a complex process that involves formal prevention controls and reporting mechanisms. Concurrently, special attention should be paid to unusual behavioral activities as it may indicate something illegal is occurring. If you have questions about the information outlined above or need assistance implementing a fraud prevention program, Wilson Lewis can help. For additional information call us at 770-476-1004 or click here to contact us. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
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