Introduction to Fraud and Forensic Auditing

• Definition and scope of fraud and forensic auditing.
• The impact of fraud on public sector trust and resources.
• Key frameworks and standards for forensic audits.

Recognizing Common Fraud Schemes

• Types of fraud in government operations, such as procurement fraud and payroll fraud.
• Red flags and indicators of fraudulent activity.
• Case studies of notable fraud cases in the public sector.

Conducting Fraud Investigations

• Steps in a forensic audit: planning, evidence gathering, and reporting.
• Techniques for interviewing suspects and witnesses.
• Maintaining evidence integrity for legal proceedings.

Analyzing Financial Discrepancies

• Tools for detecting anomalies in financial records.
• Identifying patterns and trends indicative of fraud.
• Using data analytics to enhance forensic auditing capabilities.

Preventing Fraud and Strengthening Controls

• Designing and implementing anti-fraud controls.
• Promoting a culture of ethics and accountability in the public sector.
• Training staff to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Reporting and Communicating Findings

• Structuring forensic audit reports for clarity and impact.
• Presenting findings to stakeholders, including management and legal authorities.
• Recommending actionable steps to mitigate risks and prevent future fraud.

Case Studies and Practical Exercises

• Real-world examples of fraud detection and investigation.
• Hands-on activities to analyze financial discrepancies and gather evidence.
• Group discussions on challenges and solutions in forensic auditing.

Enhanced Practical Experience:
Participants will engage in simulations of forensic audits, focusing on identifying fraudulent activities, analyzing evidence, and drafting comprehensive audit reports. Practical exercises will include evaluating financial statements, identifying red flags, and developing anti-fraud strategies. Case studies will provide insights into successful investigations, highlighting challenges and best practices for addressing irregularities in the public sector.

Delivered by the Oxford Institute of Education and Training, this course empowers participants to uncover and address irregularities effectively, promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in government operations.