# Detection and Prevention of Fraud for Investigators

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/detection-and-prevention-of-fraud-for-investigators>

## Overview

Explore the legal statutes on fraud. Learn both the legal and layman's definitions of fraud, and the nature, causes and types of white-collar crimes. Become familiar with your professional audit responsibilities for designing audit procedures to detect fraud. Discover the role of internal controls and supervision in preventing fraud and become familiar with audit procedures proven effective in detecting fraud. Discuss the role of auditors in reporting illegal acts and working with investigators to prosecute fraud. Practice fraud detection methods in case exercises.

## What you'll learn

- Define fraud and explain its five elements.
- Describe the classic fraud schemes.
- Cite auditor responsibilities for the prevention and detection of fraud.
- Describe where and how fraud is committed and who commits it.
- Identify indicators/red flags and detection techniques associated with fraud.
- Describe the criminal statutes related to fraud.
- Describe the federal rules of evidence for prosecuting fraud Identify factors of auditor cooperation with investigators; timing and content of investigative referrals.

## Prerequisites

Students should have basic personal finance knowledge, including familiarity with saving principles, general financial terminology, and setting financial goals, as well as an understanding of how budgeting supports investment planning.

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: Understanding Fraud

- Differentiate fraud from waste and abuse; define the five elements of fraud.
- Survey common fraud schemes by officials, vendors/contractors, and program beneficiaries.
- Review major criminal and civil statutes related to fraud (e.g., false statements/claims, mail & wire fraud).
- Introduce prevention and detection tools investigators can apply in varied program contexts.

#### Module 2: Investigation/Audit Standards and Guidelines

- Outline government audit types under GAGAS (financial, attestation, performance) and CIGIE standards.
- Explain forensic audits and when they’re appropriate.
- Detail investigators’ responsibilities for assessing and responding to fraud risks (SAS 99, GAGAS).
- Clarify reporting expectations, including IG Act requirements and communication with stakeholders.

#### Module 3: Fraud Prevention

- Strengthen deterrence through timely investigations, consequences, and hotline awareness.
- Design and evaluate internal controls (e.g., segregation of duties, approvals, supervisory review).
- Leverage unannounced audits and continuous monitoring to reduce opportunities for fraud.
- Promote ethics, training, and governance practices that build a strong control environment.

#### Module 4: Fraud Detection

- Apply technology and analytics (comparison tests, computer matching, trend analysis) to flag anomalies.
- Use cash-flow and net-worth methods to surface hidden income or loss.
- Conduct inventory cut-off tests and physical counts to verify existence and condition of assets.
- Triage and investigate tips from hotlines; distinguish error from intentional misconduct.

#### Module 5: The Investigative Process

- Plan investigations based on risk indicators; scope steps to confirm whether fraud likely occurred.
- Gather evidence lawfully and effectively (records, interviews), observing employee rights and warnings.
- Coordinate with auditors, counsel, and prosecutors; align with rules of evidence and agency policy.
- Document findings and prepare referrals or reports that support corrective action and accountability.

## Schedule
- Jul 13, 2026 – Jul 14, 2026 — Live Online
- Aug 31, 2026 – Sep 1, 2026 — Live Online
- Oct 15, 2026 – Oct 16, 2026 — Live Online
- Nov 12, 2026 – Nov 13, 2026 — Live Online

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1049