acfe

Top Ways Fraud is Detected in Companies

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Tracy Coenen talks to a group of CPAs about the top ways fraud is detected within companies. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) conducts a survey of its members every two years. It consistently finds that tips from employees, customers, and vendors most commonly uncover fraud within companies.

But after that, management review of financial statements and account balances and reconciliations is a very effective technique. The internal audit function can also be very effective at helping to uncover fraud at companies. Sadly, many internal frauds are also uncovered by accident.

Should Forensic Accounting Be Regulated?

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forensic-accountingThe profession of “public accounting” has been regulated by states through the process of issuing CPA licenses. There is one CPA exam taken by candidates across the country, and then each state uses the pass/fail results in their process of certifying accountants. In addition to passing the exam, states generally have education, ethics, and training requirements.

The field of forensic accounting has developed rapidly over the last decade or so, with lots of new professionals practicing forensic accounting. A CPA license is generally not required when providing forensic accounting or fraud investigation services, although many professionals do maintain the CPA credential because it adds a level of credibility to their work. Continue reading

ACFE Annual Fraud Conference

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Last week I presented at the annual Fraud Conference put on by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).

I was presenting the topic “Marketing Your Anti-Fraud Practice.” I presented the topic twice, and had great attendance at each. The feedback was wonderful, and I’m glad that people found things they can use right away. Some of the important points I made included:

  • Gather information about what your competitors are doing. Know who they are, what they do, who their clients are, how they market and what specialties they have. This will help you determine how to market your firm.
  • Utilize professionals to help you design and print your marketing materials (business cards, letterhead, brochures, etc.) for a more professional look.
  • Use public relations (PR) opportunities to your best benefit, but know which events and opportunities are worth your time. If you’ve written something, publicize it.