The Group operates in a highly competitive and global market in which large sums of money are transacted. Traditionally, like many other companies, it has operated on the basis of high levels of interpersonal trust. However, this may be changing under the pressure of increased risk taking, greater exposure to trading markets and chains, more joint ventures and changing working patterns. For advice on dealing with fraud, see section on recommendations. Most frauds in companies involve employees and some result from collusion between an employee and an outsider.
Most frauds occur as a result of control weaknesses, in particular, inadequate supervision.
In many cases, colleagues have failed to report to their supervisor their suspicions about a suspected fraudster's unusual actions or behaviour. Relatively few fraudsters use sophisticated techniques. Personal computers and networks pose the biggest threat to system security. Vulnerabilities in contracting and procurement These are considered under a separate heading since contracting and procurement activities are potentially high risk areas when it comes to maintaining business integrity. The size and complexity of contracts Increasingly, contractors are expected to provide integrated services.