As a small business owner, would you be interested if I could tell you how to increase your profit each year by an average of 5%? If you were a practicing CPA, do you think your small business clients would be interested if you could tell them how to increase their profits by an average of 5% each year? That is the amount of revenue lost to fraud as reported by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ (ACFE) in their 2024 Report to the Nations on Occupational Fraud. It is no secret as to how to prevent fraud from occurring. But we must first convince the small business owner that fraud is occurring in their organization. During this presentation we will discuss the many ways fraud can occur; how fraud occurs; who commits fraud; how to recognize the indicators of fraud; what to do if you suspect fraud; and lastly, how to prevent fraud from occurring in the first place. Most small businesses owners are very reluctant to admit that fraud might occur in their business because they know and trust their employees. Know this: Under the right circumstances (which we will discuss) most individuals will steal, and I will prove it. If you view this program, chances are as a small business owner, you will never look at your operation the same way. As an auditor, chances are you will never conduct an audit of a small business the same way.
Learning Objectives
Explain the impact of fraud on small businesses and its effect on profitability. Identify common ways fraud occurs within small business operations. Recognize behavioral and financial indicators of potential fraud. Describe common characteristics and motivations of individuals who commit fraud. Determine appropriate actions when fraud is suspected. Implement practical strategies to prevent fraud through improved controls and oversight.
Major Topics
Small Business Fraud Fraud Schemes Fraud Indicators Fraud Detection Fraud Response Fraud Prevention
