Investigations
Fraudulent behaviour can impact a business at any time. While we would like to say this behaviour is on the decline, the fact remains it is not. However, it is possible through our investigative process to bring insight and understanding to the many facets and outcomes that are associated with this type of behaviour in organisations.
At RISQ, we believe an investigation can help restore calm and bring innovative solutions to a business, thus minimising the impact of an incident.
While we have a complete section on Forensics, many investigations are supported through the forensic analysis of electronic data in all its forms. Computer forensics and e-discovery are important tools in the investigative process, and correctly used by trained professionals, can uncover evidence not available through traditional investigative means.
Likewise, the use of data analytic tools can not only uncover evidence of fraud hidden in large volumes of electronic data, but can also be used to quantify the extent of the loss resulting from fraudulent conduct. At RISQ we know a professionally conducted investigation can limit the damage caused by an incident, lead to a fast and effective resolution and can reduce the chance of a recurrence.
Investigations with RISQ
RISQ brings a methodology developed through years of practical professional investigation expertise - whether it relates to corporate fraud; intellectual property protection; or breach of regulatory or company policy. This expertise ensures we are able to effectively and efficiently meet the stated objectives of a particular assignment.
The principles RISQ follow include:
• All decisions are objectively based and supported by sufficient documentary or other evidence;
• Every investigation is undertaken from a position of independence and objectivity, allowing management to demonstrate their commitment through the engagement of an external expert investigations company, such as RISQ; and
• Practices are consistent and can be applied across different types of investigations.
Our team of investigation and forensic professionals is able to provide support with matters involving:
• Breaches of contracts and agreements
• Fraud by vendors and customers
• Security-related incidents
• Theft of intellectual property
• Misuse of computer systems
• Employee fraud and misconduct
• Retrieval of data for court proceedings
• Financial and other irregularities and
• Problem solving.
RISQ’s professional investigation and forensics team has experience in conducting assignments for clients in the private and public sector around the globe, including across the Asia Pacific region, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Our team comprises senior investigators and computer forensic experts who have gained their experience in law enforcement agencies, the military and Intelligence services, the ‘Big 4’ consulting firms, and other professional service consultancies.
Our staff has the experience and expertise to carry out investigations across a broad spectrum of issues. Investigations do not necessarily involve fraud or corrupt behaviour. Incidents involving harassment, breach of company policy, or serious occupational health and safety events should be investigated and recommendations for improvement should be implemented.
A poorly handled investigation, or the absence of any investigation, may leave an organisation exposed to potential regulatory or legal action. Similarly, the incorrect handling of electronic evidence may prejudice potential legal proceedings and limit the chances of a successful action. Any incident involves a potential learning for an organisation. An effective, professional investigation process allows organisations to put in place controls to prevent future adverse incidents occurring. Whilst an investigation by its nature is inquisitorial, RISQ professionals have the skills to effectively communicate with staff, employers and employee bodies including Union representatives, with the ability to garner the respect and confidence of persons and organisations with whom we liaise.
RISQ is a trusted partner by many organisations because:
• Investigations are conducted with objectivity which minimises the potential of allegations of a management “cover up” or bias;
• Evidence is collected in a way which will increase its chances of being accepted in evidence at any subsequent legal proceedings;
• Investigations and computer forensic analyses are conducted in a timely manner in order to quickly prove or disprove allegations against parties subject of the investigation;
• Organisations which have experienced an incident are often able to secure compensation or recover costs through the tracing of assets and the preparation of robust briefs of evidence;
• Clients are provided with a report detailing control weaknesses and areas for improvement allowing them to implement improvements to prevent similar events occurring in the future;
• Our professional investigations and forensics team comprises some of the most experienced professionals in our industry;
• We offer frank assessments of control weakness and assist our clients in implementing changes designed to strengthen the organisation as a whole.
RISQ takes any incident involving a client very seriously, and we ensure a senior investigation and/or forensic specialist is tasked with identifying the cause of the fraud; the size of the loss; and the identity of parties engaged in detrimental behaviour. We provide peace of mind by ensuring that a team member with over 10 year’s investigative or forensic experience leads all investigations.
Why Investigate?
RISQ recently conducted a Fraud Investigation on behalf of a parent multinational corporation (“Company X”) that operated a subsidiary in Australia. This organisation was a publicly listed company, subject to the scrutiny of a financial statement audit. The financial audit did not identify the following fraud:
Company X identified some anomalies concerning three cheques. It appeared that the Financial Controller of the organisation had converted funds to his own use. RISQ investigated these claims, and the subsequent investigation revealed the Financial Controller had misappropriated in excess of $1.2 million over a period of approximately seven months, through the misuse of cheques and a corporate credit card.
Acting concurrently with the organisation’s team of legal advisors, the extent of the fraud was uncovered, assets under the control of the Financial Controller and other related third parties were frozen, and a civil recovery process was undertaken. As a result, in excess of $600,000 was recovered. Significant control weaknesses were identified throughout the conduct of this investigation and RISQ made a number of recommendations that were subsequently implemented by the organisation to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
