What could happen if vital investigation steps are skipped in a fraud examination?

Choosing to skip vital investigation steps in a fraud examination can lead to missing key pieces of evidence, which is critical for a comprehensive understanding of the fraud scheme. Evidence is often interconnected, and omitting specific steps can leave gaps in the investigation narrative, making it difficult to build a robust case against the perpetrator and ultimately impacting the likelihood of obtaining justice or recovering losses.

When crucial investigative procedures are overlooked—such as interviewing witnesses, examining records, or analyzing data—important facts might remain undiscovered that could substantiate the findings or provide clarity on the fraudulent actions. Every step in an investigation serves a purpose, and missing any can hinder the overall effectiveness and accuracy of the fraud examination process. The thoroughness of an investigation directly correlates with the success of identifying the fraud and the individuals involved. Therefore, prioritizing a complete and methodical approach is imperative in fraud examinations to ensure all relevant evidence is collected and considered.