Accounts Payable Fraud – Ways to Detect and Prevent AP Fraud

OVERVIEW The passage of Sarbanes-Oxley back in 2002 forced many companies to look deeper into internal Accounts Payable controls. They realized that is was not an easy task. Implementing internal controls takes time, money, and effort. However, if fraud or missteps are uncovered, it will be worth the investment. If not, you have the knowledge that your ship is tight. There are several approaches you can try to tighten up your A/P operations and thereby perform an internal audit; which in itself will be fruitful for future audits and investigations. These approaches require some data gathering, procedural changes, and employee education. However, the implementation of these changes should not be a burden to you, your staff, or the company. Sarbanes Oxley Compliance WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND Internal fraud has been around long before Sarbanes-Oxley and will be with us when we retire. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), it is estimated that 5% o...