|
|
 |
|
This section provides advice and guidance on what to do if you suspect that you are a victim of fraud and are considering reporting your suspicions to the police.
If you are an employee who is aware of a fraud, you should discuss the information you have with your manager, in line with any fraud prevention policy that exists. Do remember that you can seek confidential, impartial advice from Public Concern at Work.
If you are a manager or company director responsible for making decisions as a result of a fraud being discovered, it is likely that you have four main considerations:
- to prevent any further loss
- to take disciplinary action
- to seek to recover the monies defrauded
- to pursue a criminal prosecution
These considerations are not necessarily exclusive. For example, a serious case could involve all three options being applied together. Actions in the civil courts to recover lost assets can take place in parallel to a criminal investigation and prosecution. Other factors may include the seriousness of the offence, the need to deter other potential wrongdoers, and the need to improve financial and operating systems to prevent recurrences.
Make an objective assessment of the situation. Limit the extent of your discussions to avoid tipping off the perpetrator. Devise an action plan based on your options above. Don't delay in acting and do preserve any evidence.
Public sector institutions and professional investigators should be aware of any case acceptance criteria or a Memorandum of Understanding that may exist between their organisation and the police service.
|
|
