Which of the following practices can help organizations reduce the risk of fraud?

Implementing strong internal controls is a fundamental practice that significantly reduces the risk of fraud within organizations. Internal controls consist of policies and procedures designed to safeguard assets, ensure accurate financial reporting, and promote compliance with laws and regulations. These controls can include measures such as segregation of duties, regular reconciliations, authorization requirements for transactions, and ongoing monitoring of financial activities.

By having strong internal controls in place, organizations effectively create a framework that discourages fraudulent activities. For instance, segregation of duties ensures that no single individual has control over all aspects of a financial transaction, which reduces the opportunity for fraud. Regular auditing and compliance checks further enhance detection and prevention, fostering an environment where integrity is prioritized. Ultimately, the presence of robust internal controls acts as a deterrent to potential fraudsters, signaling that the organization takes the risk seriously and is prepared to manage it effectively.