Forensic Accounting And Auditing Training Course

INTRODUCTION

Corporate frauds possess the potential to cripple large organizations, causing significant financial loss, legal battles, and a severe erosion of trust among stakeholders. The rapid advancements in technology, while propelling industries forward, have also given rise to sophisticated white-collar crimes, making corporate fraud an increasingly pervasive threat across all sectors. Governments and corporations worldwide have responded by intensifying their efforts to detect, prevent, and penalize fraudulent activities, thereby elevating the importance of forensic accounting and auditing. White-collar crimes, which include embezzlement, corporate fraud, and money laundering, are nonviolent but financially motivated crimes that can devastate an organization. These crimes often masquerade as legitimate transactions, making them difficult to detect. However, with effective procedures, routine inspections, and regular training, organizations can significantly deter corporate fraud and mitigate its consequences.

This comprehensive Forensic Accounting and Auditing training course is designed to empower professionals with the knowledge and skills to detect and prevent corporate fraud. Participants will gain a deep understanding of forensic accounting, learn advanced fraud detection techniques, and be equipped to handle the complexities of modern financial crimes. By the end of the Forensic Accounting and Auditing course, attendees will be well-prepared to take proactive measures in safeguarding their organizations against fraud.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives of the Forensic Accounting and Auditing Training Course are to equip participants with:

• A solid foundation in accounting practices and financial statement analysis.
• An understanding of the legal environment surrounding forensic accounting.
• Knowledge of the responsibilities of forensic accountants, including fraud examination techniques.
• In-depth training in fraud detection methodologies, evidence collection, and investigation procedures.
• Skills to conduct business valuations and develop strategies for fraud prevention.
• Expertise in preparing and presenting forensic audit reports that support legal prosecution and recovery efforts.
• The ability to implement effective fraud detection frameworks within their organizations.
• A comprehensive understanding of the COSO Fraud Risk Management Guide and how to apply it in managing corporate fraud.

DURATION

2 Weeks

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This Forensic Accounting and Auditing course is ideal for professionals who are directly involved in financial oversight and fraud prevention, including:

• Directors, Board Members, and Chief Financial Officers responsible for corporate governance and financial integrity.
• Auditors and Financial Professionals tasked with ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Bookkeepers and Accountants managing day-to-day financial transactions and seeking career advancement.
• Shareholders and Investors interested in understanding the financial health and risk profile of their organizations.
• Legal Professionals involved in drafting contracts and managing legal risks related to financial transactions.
• Risk Managers and Consultants specializing in forensic auditing and accounting services.

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination

• Fundamentals of accounting practices
• Essentials of forensic examination
• Responsibilities of accounting investigators and auditors
• Overview of the forensic accounting legal environment

Module 2: Understanding Corporate Fraud

• Overview of white-collar crimes
• Effective fraud investigation techniques
• Types of corporate fraud
• Psychology of the fraudster profile
• The Fraud Triangle theory
• Impact of corporate fraud on internal and external stakeholders

Module 3: Examination of Financial Statements and Analytical Techniques

• Scope and types of financial statement frauds
• Analysis of financial statements and audit reports
• Horizontal and vertical analysis
• Financial ratio analysis
• Anomaly detection for identifying nonconformities

Module 4: The Fraud Investigation and Engagement Processes

• Techniques for recognizing symptoms of fraudulent behavior
• Review of the investigation process and case initiation
• Evidence collection methods:
  • Observational Evidence
  • Financial Evidence
  • Non-Financial Evidence

Module 5: Data Compilation and Analysis

• Importing and analyzing data using MS Office tools
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of corporate fraud
• Data analysis based on Newcomb-Benford's law
• Overview of data-driven fraud analysis techniques
• Evaluating the extent and scope of fraudulent practices

Module 6: Reporting of Findings and Analysis

• Auditor responsibility and reporting standards
• Forensic audit report template
• Risk assessment and reporting
• Business valuation and damages reporting

Module 7: Fraud Prevention

• Examination of the existing internal control environment
• Understanding the COSO Model ("Internal Control-Integrated Framework"):
  • Control Environment
  • Risk Assessment
  • Control Activities
  • Information & Communication
  • Monitoring
• In-depth review of COSO's Fraud Risk Management Guide 2016
• Learning the 'Evaluate – Identify – Deter – Respond' cycle of managing corporate fraud

Module 8: Deterring Corporate Fraud

• Identifying organizational tolerance to risk and improving internal controls
• Formulating a critical fraud response strategy
• Developing an anti-fraud program

Module 9: Effective Functioning within an Organizational Framework

• Aligning objectives and expectations with key decision-makers
• Effectively communicating objectives to relevant personnel
• Cooperating with internal and external auditors
• Collaborating with legally trained departments such as compliance, legal, and ethical committees

GENERAL NOTES

• This course is delivered by experienced trainers with a strong background in forensic accounting and auditing. The training includes a mix of practical exercises, theoretical instruction, group discussions, and case studies.
• Participants will receive comprehensive training manuals and additional reference materials.
• Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded a certificate.
• Tailor-made courses can be arranged to meet specific organizational needs. For more information, contact us at training@skillsforafrica.org.
• The training will be conducted at the SKILLS FOR AFRICA TRAINING INSTITUTE in Nairobi, Kenya.
• The training fee covers tuition, materials, lunch, and the training venue. Accommodation and airport transfers can be arranged upon request.
• Payment should be made to our bank account before the start of training, with proof of payment sent to training@skillsforafrica.org.