Fraud protection may be the last thing that comes to mind when running a business. The fact is, fraud is a situation that needs the attention of any business owner. Like any crime, fraud preys upon the weaknesses of your business. Every business is different and has different areas of weakness. Small businesses are at greater risk of fraudulent activity in the workplace. Unfortunately, business fraud has become so common that companies have spent billions of dollars over the last several year on fraud detection services. Like any crime, fraud preys upon the weaknesses of your business.

Business fraud has become such a frequent crime partly because many employees have access to important data systems. As a business owner, you stand to lose a lot. The first preventative approach when it comes to reducing fraud is letting your workers know upfront you will be monitoring and looking out for it. There are several other measures to help prevent fraud in your business operations.

1. Conduct background checks to avoid business fraud.

2. Work with an expert to discover weaknesses in your business operations.

3. Create a system of checks and balances.

4. Schedule surprise audits.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consult an expert in fraud detection to discover any weaknesses that could put your business at risk

No two businesses will have the same risks since each one is different. Still, there are some problems that seem to consistently affect most businesses. Again, hiring practices is a big one. You should always follow up interviews by checking out references and performing background checks when necessary. An accountant and attorney well versed in financial fraud detection business can help you analyze your business structure for any problem areas that could go unnoticed.

I recommend: Take fraud detection steps by hiring the services of a forensic accounting service like Fulcrum Inquiry to help you analyze your business and provide you with fraud detection solutions. Michaelson & Co. has an informational website about fraud detection, including a link to find fraud detection services from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.

Create strong internal controls for fraud protection

Create a system of checks and balances within your organization. No 1 person should have access to everything. For example, the person responsible for writing check on your business account for expenses should not be the same person who balances the check book. This is a clear conflict of interest.

I recommend: If you aren't sure where to begin implementing a structure of checks and balances within your company, look into fraud detection tools. Check the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners site for fraud tools and resources.

Conduct surprise company audits to keep everyone on their toes for additional fraud protection

If your employees are aware that a company audit could occur at any time, they will be much less likely to become involved in fraudulent activity.

I recommend: Asset Management Resources can perform periodic audits for your business, or you can purchase fraud detection software like SofTrack that will analyze your company's strengths and weaknesses. It will help you point out any inconsistencies and even provide you with a written critique of your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  One of the top ways to stop business fraud in its tracks is by getting tips from other employees. You should consider establishing a third party hotline that gives callers complete anonymity when they report suspicious activity.