The interview before the fraud interview

Before fraud experts begin a formal investigation of suspected occupational fraud, business owners or executives may need to perform preliminary interviews with potential suspects and witnesses. These meetings can help resolve doubts and obtain information. But to be productive, preliminary interviews must be informal and nonthreatening. If you believe someone is withholding information, try asking more detailed questions. If someone seems to be lying, request clarification, then turn the case over to the experts. Fraud examiners know how to elicit information that will hold up in court if it becomes necessary.