Thursday: Everyone Plays a Role in Fraud Prevention
In state government, program integrity is about ensuring that the programs and services we deliver operate as intended, funds are used appropriately, and the public receives the value they deserve. Every employee, regardless of role, contributes to program integrity. Whether you process data, manage a program, provide services to the public, or support operations, your attention to detail and willingness to speak up when something doesn’t seem right are vital to preventing fraud and misuse of resources.
Consequently, we need to infuse integrity into the workforce. Integrity starts with our code of ethical conduct and annual ethics trainings. You can also encourage ethical behavior through the tone at the top expressed by management and leaders. It is important to have everyone take part to create that cohesive culture where integrity is a priority.
Ethical culture cannot be effective without the imprint of integrity on the organization's culture. This enables the internal control system to run effectively and efficiently.
Best Practices
At their core, employees who are leaders in the fraud prevention space are role models in their respective organizations. Employees must be committed to demonstrating honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct in all their actions and decisions. Managers can help guide employees by establishing clear, meaningful values that are communicated on a regular basis.
Implementing the best practices located in the table below will help support a strong ethical environment in your agency.
|
Best Practice |
Actionable Tip |
|---|---|
|
Promote Transparency |
Be transparent in decision-making, reporting, and dealings with colleagues and clients to promote trust. |
|
Enforce Accountability |
Implement systems that ensure everyone, including leadership, is held accountable for their actions. |
|
Consistent Monitoring |
Review processes and documentation to identify potential errors or inconsistencies. |
|
Focus on Long Term Success |
Prioritize long-term success by implementing sustainable practices and building and retaining trust over time. |
|
Hold Yourself Accountable |
Admitting your mistakes is paramount to understanding what it means to have integrity. |
|
Exercise Professional Skepticism |
Maintain a questioning mindset; it’s not about assuming wrongdoing but remaining curious and thorough in your work. This will help you identify errors, inefficiencies, or red flags to potential fraud or misuse of resources. |
|
Report Fraud |
Provide a retaliation-free way to report ethical violations. Employees should use designated reporting channels to report suspected fraud and misuse of resources. |
About ICA
Minnesota Management and Budget’s Internal Control and Accountability Unit (ICA) offers resources, training, and consultation for executive agencies to prioritize and document their internal control systems. The unit offers content for Fraud Awareness and Prevention Week for the twelfth consecutive year, aligning with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) annual International Fraud Awareness Week.