Fraud is a growing global problem, and fraud examiners are on the front lines defending the public against this threat. Organizations in a number of industries hire fraud examiners to fight against a wide range of scams including credit card fraud, identity theft, investment fraud, health insurance fraud, telemarketing fraud and many other types of scams, according to FBI. To be successful in combating fraud, fraud examiners must have the following five characteristics.
Truthful and Integrity
Fraud examiners are often required to testify in court trials. It is essential for their testimonies to be straightforward, truthful and without any misrepresentations or partial truths.
Good Listeners
Fraud examiners need to be alert listeners as they interview all the witnesses, suspects and claimants that participate in various fraud investigations. They need to be attuned to the nuances of speech and to develop a capacity for interpreting both the things that are said and the things that are left unsaid. They also need to be adept at hearing, understanding and responding to questions and statements when participating in courtroom proceedings.
Objectivity
A fraud examiner must be able to make unbiased decisions based on the facts of each case. They must not allow personal prejudices or motivations to interfere with the fraud investigations they are conducting. They must also not proceed with conducting investigations in cases where conflicts of interest exist, as this would compromise his or her ability to be objective. For example, a fraud examiner should never conduct an investigation of a former employer because his or her objectivity could not be trusted in such a case.
Outstanding Analytical Abilities
Fraud examiners need to be able to analyze financial data accurately. To do their jobs effectively, they need to be able to look at billing trends and detect any irregularities that may be present. They need to have an understanding of how financial relationships typically work. This knowledge enables them to spot deviations from the usual protocols and detect instances where fraud may be happening. The ability to think critically is essential for success with this job.
Excellent Communication Skills
Written and oral communication skills are both essential characteristics for fraud examiners. Fraud examiners need to be able to write reports sharing the details of their investigation findings. Effective speaking and interpersonal communication skills are also an essential component of the job description, as fraud examiners need to be able to provide information to others in an understandable way. In courtroom situations, they need to be able to present evidence clearly and succinctly. They must be able to interact effectively with prosecutors, attorney generals, courtroom officials and the public.
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Concluding Thoughts
These are five of the most important characteristics that you would need to become a successful fraud examiner. There are many other traits and skills that would also be useful in this profession. Additional assets for a career in fraud investigation include knowledge of the US legal system, particularly the laws relating to fraud and mathematical ability. Computer expertise, especially the ability to utilize email, spreadsheets and database software effectively, is also a highly sought after skill. If you are passionate about seeing justice served and you possess these characteristics, it’s likely that a career as a fraud examiner would be a good fit for your unique personality.
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