An allegation of fraud is a serious matter. It can involve money, reputation or the security of sensitive information. Fraud cases are complex and require a thorough investigation. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners defines fraud as any type of deception that involves stealing or attempting to steal money or property from a person or organization. The investigation process includes a review of records, documents and emails and interviews with the suspect and witnesses. Using interview techniques that foster rapport can help investigators gather more detailed and accurate information. Investigators should separate facts from opinions or assumptions and always remember to document all evidence, especially in the case of digital records.
It’s important to identify all possible victims of the alleged fraud and ensure they are aware of the outcome of the fraud investigation. This will minimize future occurrences of the fraud. Corrective measures may include actions against the alleged fraudster, recovery of lost funds or legal proceedings. It’s also important to share the results of the investigation with relevant stakeholders.
Investigating fraud can be difficult because the evidence of fraudulent activities is often hidden from view or destroyed. To make the most of your time, focus on gathering key pieces of evidence first. For example, if the suspect was involved in a cash theft scheme, you can find corroborating evidence through work schedules and security footage.
It’s also helpful to review the suspect’s email history and personal social media accounts for evidence of their involvement in a fraud scheme. If you are investigating a civil fraud, you’ll need to meet a lower standard of proof than a criminal case.