Forensic Accounting

What forensic accounting is

Forensic accounting combines accounting analysis, internal control and documentary examination methods. It helps identify unusual transactions, reconstruct the sequence of events and prepare well-supported conclusions about financial misconduct. The course is built around hands-on work with data and documents, taking into account Russian legislation and business practice.

Participants learn to distinguish an error from a possible intentional misstatement, understand which red flags call for further review, and structure their analysis without jumping to conclusions. Particular attention is paid to the quality of evidence, the preservation of source materials and the documentation of every step.

Working with financial data

Knowing the red flags of fraud is not enough: you need to be able to structure a review so that your conclusions are backed by documents and clear reasoning. The course shows how to reconcile accounting records with contracts, source documents, bank transactions and management information. This approach makes it possible to separate a technical error from a deliberate misstatement and to identify what additional data should be requested.

A specialist must record the source of every piece of information, follow a consistent sequence of actions, check data for consistency and avoid unfounded assumptions. A good report is clear to management, auditors, lawyers and the compliance function: it sets out the facts, the limitations of the analysis and practical recommendations.

What the course covers

• common financial fraud schemes and warning signs;
• analysis of accounting records, source documents and related transactions;
• detecting anomalies, duplicate payments, conflicts of interest and unusual counterparties;
• collecting, organizing and preserving documentary evidence;
• interviewing employees and verifying their explanations;
• preparing a report with facts, limitations of the analysis and recommendations;
• internal control measures that reduce the risk of repeat misconduct.

Preventing financial misconduct

Forensic accounting is useful not only after a suspicious transaction has been discovered. The results of the analysis help strengthen internal control: segregate duties, streamline payment approvals, monitor changes to master data, define risk indicators and a response procedure. In this way, a one-off review becomes the basis for systematic fraud prevention.

Practical approach

Classes are built around professional scenarios and step-by-step procedures. Using examples, participants learn to formulate hypotheses, identify data sources, compare documents and record their findings. The course materials apply in accounting, audit, compliance, economic security and risk management.

Learning outcomes

After the course you will be able to organize an initial review of a suspicious transaction, draw up an analysis plan, identify key discrepancies and present your conclusions in a form management can easily understand. You will also learn to spot weaknesses in company processes and propose preventive measures: segregation of duties, access control, regular reconciliations and counterparty checks.

No investigative experience is required: what matters is attention to detail, willingness to work with documents and participation in practical assignments. On completion, participants receive an HSE IPAA certificate of completion. Dates of upcoming groups are in the schedule.