Case Study: Lessons learned from employee fraud

The most popular type of fraud is misappropriation of assets, including theft of cash and inventories. The motivation to commit fraud include a lack of understanding about fraud behaviour, opportunity to commit fraud and lifestyle and financial pressure.

The motivation for employee to commit fraud stems from three conditions:

  • Need
  • Opportunity &
  • Rationalisation

Let us look at this case from 2019 which resulted in the conviction of a UK solicitor for fraud.

UK solicitor, Andrew Davies jailed for defrauding his firm of £2.3m 

A former senior partner, the UK solicitor, has been jailed for four years after defrauding his firm out of a total of £2.3m. Andrew Davies, 59, paid personal invoices to himself from the business and under-declared £1.1m in stamp duty land tax to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for over nine years.

Davies pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by false representation at Reading Crown Court in 2019 and was sentenced to four years imprisonment in January this year. As a senior partner at the firm, Andrew Davies managed to defraud it out of the money by paying personal invoices to himself from the business account.

The 59-year-old also under-declared £1.1m in Stamp Duty Land Tax to HMRC over nine years, over-declaring tax to clients and then taking money from the solicitor’s firms account for himself, both defrauding the company he worked for and HMRC at the same time.

Davies also raised invoices to pay over £1.6 million to his friend Stephen Allan, who worked as a property developer and was a firm client. The 62-year-old from Bishop’s Stortford was convicted at Reading Crown Court on one count of money laundering and jailed for three years.

In a statement, police mentioned the convictions and sentencing of a solicitor’s firm in Berkshire defrauded out of £2.3m between 2010 and 2017.

Allan then made smaller payments into Davies’ account and also pocketed around £400,000 himself. The solicitor extracted funds from the firm’s client account, paying it to Allan in transactions described as ‘fees’, but there was no known work for this.

Davies of The Street, West Clandon, Guildford, and Allan of Thornberry Road, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire, was charged by police officers in August 2019.

The statement did not name the firm, but a Solicitors Regulation Authority notice has previously stated that Davies worked for Reading firm Pitmans LLP, which has since become part of another practice. Davies has already been struck by the Solicitors’ Disciplinary Tribunal and ordered to pay £17,000 in costs.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Katie Taylor of Thames Valley Police’s Economic Crime Unit said: ‘In this case, a solicitor trusted to safeguard client funds abused this position and systematically defrauded his firm of large sums of money for his benefit.

‘He then used a corrupt relationship to launder the proceeds of his crime through a property developer. These professional enablers of organised crime represent a significant risk, and we hope that the conviction and sentence, in this case, will act as a deterrent to others.’

Source: Financial Crime News & The Law Society Gazette

Protecting your company from employee fraud

Employee background check and employment history check is vital to avoid horror stories and taboo tales within HR, your business, or your brand. Simply investing in sufficient employment screening services can save you time, money and heartbreak.

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About CRI Group

Based in London, CRI Group works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific as a one-stop international Risk ManagementEmployee Background ScreeningBusiness IntelligenceDue DiligenceCompliance Solutions and other professional Investigative Research solutions provider. We have the largest proprietary network of background screening analysts and investigators across the Middle East and Asia. Our global presence ensures that no matter how international your operations are, we have the network needed to provide you with all you need, wherever you happen to be. CRI Group also holds BS 102000:2013 and BS 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.

In 2016, the CRI Group launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC®) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body established for ISO 37001 Anti-Bribery Management SystemsISO 37301 Compliance Management Systems and ISO 31000 Risk Management, providing training and certification. ABAC® operates through its global network of certified ethics and compliance professionals, qualified auditors and other certified professionals. As a result, CRI Group’s global team of certified fraud examiners work as a discreet white-labelled supplier to some of the world’s largest organisations.

You suspect employee fraud. Now what?

When any type of fraud, including employee fraud, is discovered, it’s usually by surprise. That’s because most of us aren’t used to looking for criminal behaviour inside our own organisation. We trust…
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EU: Can IP infringements cost you your life?

The Intellectual Property Commission estimates that IP infringements in the form of counterfeit goods, trade secret theft, and pirated software costs the US economy $225 billion to $600 billion.

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019 and its subsequent spread around the world, counterfeiters have turned their attention to producing fake testing kits, counterfeit personal protection equipment and, even before the authorities have approved treatments, fake medicines purporting to cure the disease, according to the 2020 status report by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The joint report on counterfeit medicines showed that not only ‘lifestyle’ medicines but also medicines to treat serious diseases, including antibiotics, cancer therapies or heart disease medications, are subject to being counterfeited, with potentially deadly consequences for the patients who consume those medicines.

This report underlines the importance of IP rights to the EU economy and, therefore, to any recovery from the Covid-19 crisis, which has dominated the first half of 2020 and threatens to have long-lasting effects. It brings together the findings of the research carried out in recent years by the EUIPO, through the European Observatory on the infringement of Intellectual Property Rights, on the extent, scope and economic consequences of Intellectual Property Right (IPR) infringement in the EU.

The Status Report also contains research on the volume of counterfeit and pirated goods in international trade and the economic contribution of intellectual property-rights intensive industries to economic growth and jobs.

IP Rights and your employees

Depending on the type of business you are involved in, it is likely that your employees will create certain types of intellectual property in the course of their employment with you. This is especially true if they are involved in compiling databases, creating marketing material and training brochures. Since the IP rights here belong to the company they work for, an employee contract will serve to protect you here. 

It is also vital here to run background checks on employees before you hire them.

Employee Background Checks

Simply investing in sufficient employment screening services can save you time, money and heartbreak. The CRI Group is a leading worldwide provider, specialising in local and international employee background check, including pre employment background check.

Our employee background checks services, also known as EmploySmart™, is a robust new pre employment screening service certified for BS7858 to avoid negligent hiring liabilities and prevent horror stories and taboo tales within HR, your business, or your brand. 

VIEW EMPLOYSMART™ BROCHURE

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How the CRI® Group can help you tackle IP infringement

CRI® Group’s Intellectual Property Investigations team helps companies identify threats to IP and confidential information internally and throughout their supply chain, develop the appropriate mitigation strategies and investigate suspected infringements.

VIEW OUR BROCHURE

For further information on IPR infringement or to book a meeting with our experts, click here.

Meet our IPR Infringement Investigation Manager

Mahamad Thouhid – e: mahamad.thouhid@crigroup.com – is an experienced Investigations Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the investigations and intelligence industry. Skilled in investigative planning and reporting, delivering innovative IP/Brand protection (Anti Counterfeit, Products tampering, Anti diversion and Infringement), OSINT, law enforcement, liaison with Govt. Authorities, operations management, due diligence, etc.


BOOK A MEETING NOW!

 

The mandatory Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence: How to comply?

The European Commission on 23 February 2022 adopted a long-awaited proposal for a Directive on mandatory corporate sustainability due diligence for widely-defined specified “companies”. The proposals cover obligations throughout the value chain and also attach to non-EU companies which meet specific criteria.

Companies need to prepare now both across their own business operations and their value chain to comply with the proposed Directive. While 2024 is the earliest the Directive will come into effect, the lead time will be needed to put compliant measures in place, or to face civil liabilities and significant fines based on turnover.

How does the mandatory corporate sustainability due diligence directive work?

The proposed Directive establishes a corporate sustainability due diligence duty requiring specific companies to identify and, where necessary, prevent, end or mitigate the potential or actual adverse impacts of their activities on human rights and the environment. Companies will have to publicly communicate their findings in an annual report and there are express directors’ duties.  A European Network of Supervisory Authorities will be created to ensure coordination and alignment between Member States, as per a report on cms-lawnow.com 

The proposal recognises the important role that directors will play in this process, such that new directors’ duties are proposed to set up and oversee the implementation and integration of sustainable due diligence into the corporate strategy, and a remunerative incentivisation used to ensure climate change is incorporated within the scope of the corporate plan. A director’s duty to act in the best interest of a company will now include expressly taking into account the human rights, climate change and environmental consequences of their decisions in the near, medium and long term.

Accompanying Measures

Although SMEs are not directly in scope of the proposal, the Commission proposes accompanying measures to support all companies that may be indirectly affected by the broad application of the draft Directive.

Member States are required to ensure that natural and legal persons are entitled to submit substantiated concerns to any supervisory authority when they have reasons to believe, on the basis of objective circumstances, that a company is failing to comply with the national provisions adopted pursuant to the Directive. They are also obliged to establish civil liability regimes where companies are liable for damages if they fail to comply with the due diligence rules and as a result of this failure an adverse impact that should have been identified, prevented, mitigated, brought to an end or its extent minimised through appropriate measures occurs and leads to damage.

Implications of the corporate sustainability due diligence directive

Once the final version of the Directive is transposed, procedures and training will be required to ensure that companies have the requisite systems in place to be able to comply with the obligations and provide such reports. This will involve dialogue throughout the value chain and changes to existing contractual arrangements. Those not directly in scope should also consider their position and potential new requests for information to assist in the due diligence process by others. Once legislation is implemented, non-compliance can result in fines or orders issued requiring the company to comply with the due diligence obligation. Victims could also obtain compensation for damage due to non-compliance with this legislation, says cms-lawnow.com 

The way forward

The proposal will be presented to the European Parliament and the Council for debate. Once a text is agreed, approved, and then adopted, Member States will have two years to transpose it into national law. This initiative is part of a wider corporate sustainability package intended to advance the European Green Deal which also announced an agreed Council position on the Commission’s proposal for a Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. 

The German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act

In January 2023 a new German law, known as the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, becomes effective and applies to companies operating or trading in Germany. The law introduces a legal requirement for businesses to manage social and environmental issues in their supply chains, through more responsible business practices.

The Act requires businesses to undergo significant efforts in order to achieve compliance. In this eBook, we will provide a first outline of the Act’s material contents and an in-depth analysis of the applicability of the Act to various corporate structures.

This eBook is the collection of a series of articles in which we will take a closer look at key issues, especially addressing the question of what you can do to adequately prepare yourself at this early stage. We would be happy to provide you with individual advice, as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us. If you cannot find what you are looking for, please feel free to get in touch with the team! Let’s talk

 

Supply chain due diligence ebook - LI

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IP infringement: The Intellectual Property and Youth Scoreboard 2022 is out!

IP infringement by way of buying counterfeit goods online and accessing digital content from illegal sources, intentionally or by accident, remain a common practise among youth, says the 2022 edition of the Intellectual Property and Youth Scoreboard.

Released by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), the study provides an update on the behaviours of youth towards purchasing fake products and intellectual property infringement. It is based on a survey of young people between the ages of 15 and 24 in all 27 member states of the European Union (EU) and highlights the factors driving young people to purchase counterfeit goods or access digital content from illegal sources.

Key drivers behind purchasing fakes and accessing pirated content are mostly the price and availability. Peer and social influence such as the behaviour of family or friends also affect the decisions of European youth, says a report of the study on IP Helpdesk.

The increasing dangers of IP Infringement

Counterfeit goods pose a significant threat to consumers’ health and safety and is detrimental to the environment. Pirated wares also have a wide range of negative consequences for global economies, the report finds.

Fact: Young Europeans buy more fake products and continue to access pirated content

  • 37% of young people bought one or several fake products intentionally in the last 12 months
  • 21% of 15 to 24 year olds say they intentionally use illegal sources of digital content in the last 12 months
  • 60% of young Europeans said they prefer to access digital content from legal sources, compared to 50% in 2019
  • Price and availability remain the main factors for buying counterfeits and for digital piracy

The EUIPO is based in Spain and among one of the most innovative intellectual property offices globally. The European Observatory on Infringements of Intellectual Property Rights is a network of experts and specialist stakeholders. It was established in 2009, with a mission to fight the increasing danger of IP Infringement in Europe and to protect the rights of online property.

DOWNLOAD REPORT

How the CRI® Group can help you tackle IPR infringement

CRI® Group’s Intellectual Property Investigations team helps companies identify threats to IP and confidential information internally and throughout their supply chain, develop the appropriate mitigation strategies and investigate suspected infringements.

VIEW OUR BROCHURE

For further information on IPR infringement or to book a meeting with our experts, click here.

Meet our IPR Infringement Investigation Manager

Mahamad Thouhid – e: mahamad.thouhid@crigroup.com – is an experienced Investigations Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the investigations and intelligence industry. Skilled in investigative planning and reporting, delivering innovative IP/Brand protection (Anti Counterfeit, Products tampering, Anti diversion and Infringement), OSINT, law enforcement, liaison with Govt. Authorities, operations management, due diligence, etc.


BOOK A MEETING NOW!

CRI® Group announces Webinars on key aspects of Due Diligence Investigations

The CRI Group is hosting a series of webinars on Due Diligence Investigations. The insightful webinars will help you go deep into crucial aspects of Due Diligence Investigations with lessons learned by industry leaders in various areas of business and best practices that you should adopt.

Details:

Webinar 1: Web-based or On-site due diligence investigation: When and why do you need it? And who’s going to need it?

  • Duration: 1h 15 min (1h sharing followed by 15 min Q&A)
  • Date: 15 September 2022, Thu
  • Time: 11.00am – 12.15pm UAE
  • Speaker: Ashelea + Kevin (TBC)
  • Format: Webinar
  • Platform: MS Teams

Learning points:

  • Web-based or on-site, or both? Which methods provide robust validity and trust to the information being investigated?
  • How is a web-based due diligence investigation conducted?
  • How is an on-site due diligence investigation conducted?
  • How extensive does the due diligence investigation be with the web-based and on-site?
  • When is a web-based due diligence investigation adequately required? And who will need it?
  • When is on-site due diligence investigation adequately required? And who will need it?
  • When are both web-based and on-site due diligence investigations required? And who will need it?
  • What are the types of due diligence investigation offered on the current market
  • Current Laws and Legislation around the world that are mandating businesses to conduct due diligence investigations

REGISTER NOW

Webinar 2: The A-Z on how the examiner conducts adequate due diligence investigation

  • Duration: 1h 15 min (1h sharing followed by 15 min Q&A)
  • Date: TBC
  • Time: 11.00am – 12.15pm UAE
  • Speaker: Ashelea Arzadon
  • Format: Webinar

The first webinar will be on “The A-Z on how the examiner conducts due diligence investigation” while the topic for the second webinar/podcast is “Web-based or On-site due diligence investigation. When and why do you need it? And who’s going to need it?” 

The webinars will be addressed by CRI Group experts and will be of one-hour duration followed by a 15 minutes Q&A session. The dates for these webinars will be confirmed shortly. It is recommended that you register your interest here so that you are kept updated on the webinars.

Our Speaker

Ashelea is the Investigations Manager, leading the due diligence, C-level background screening, insurance claim and corporate investigations for multinational clients across various key industry sectors: public relations and advertising agencies of global brands, international law firms, aerospace and defence, and nuclear and energy companies. Her work includes multi-jurisdictional investigations in MENA, Europe and the Americas.

Before joining CRI® Group, she leveraged her knowledge of international law and politics as part of diplomatic and consular practices after working with the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila. She graduated from Lyceum of the Philippines University with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations with a major in Diplomacy – and currently pursuing her master’s in Corruption and Governance at the University of Sussex. She became a Certified Fraud Examiner in 2018.

Due Diligence investigations: Mitigate Critical Risks

At CRI®, we provide due diligence services where ever you are. Use our DueDiligence360™ reports to help you comply with anti-money laundering, anti-bribery, and anti-corruption regulations ahead of a merger, acquisition, or joint venture. You can also use them for third-party risk assessment, onboarding decision-making, and identifying beneficial ownership structures.

Due Diligence helps you Identify key risk issues clearly and concisely using accurate information in a well-structured and transparent report format. Our comprehensive range of reports includes specialised reports that support specific compliance requirements. Protect your reputation and the risk of financial damage and regulator action using our detailed reports. They enhance your knowledge and understanding of the customer, supplier, and third-party risk, helping you avoid those involved with financial crime. 

The CRI® Group invites you to schedule a quick appointment with them to discuss in more detail how conducting due diligence and compliance can help you and your organisation.

Based in London, CRI® Group works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific as a one-stop international Risk ManagementEmployee Background ScreeningBusiness IntelligenceTPRMDue DiligenceCompliance Solutions and other professional Investigative Research solutions provider. 

We have the largest proprietary network of background-screening analysts and investigators across the Middle East and Asia. Our global presence ensures that no matter how international your operations are we have the network needed to provide you with all you need, wherever you happen to be. CRI® Group also holds BS 102000:2013 and BS 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.

 

Employee background screening FAQs – PART II: Pre-Employment Check

This three-part series of articles looks at employee background screening FAQs.

How do you know the candidate you just offered a role to is the ideal candidate? Are you 100% sure that everything they’re telling you is the truth? Or are you just 90% certain? They showed you a diploma: How do you know it’s not photoshopped? Did you follow the correct procedures during your background checks process?

Simply investing in sufficient screening systems can save you time, money and heartbreak.

Part One of the series of articles on employee background screening FAQs, “What, Why and Who?” provides an introduction to employee background checks and the necessary screenings that are vital to avoid horror stories and taboo tales that occur within your business. Part Two, “Pre-Employment Checks,” are essentially an investigation into a person’s character – inside and outside their professional lives. Part Three, “Conflict of interest check & FACIS Searches,” checks for any conflict of interests and sanctions, exclusions, debarments and disciplinary actions. To receive the next series subscribe to our monthly newsletter subscribe now!

Taken as a whole, this employee background screening FAQs ebook developed by the CRI® Group is the perfect primer for HR professionals and companies wanting guidance on background screening, pre-employment screening and post-employment background checks.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL SERIES HERE

WE’VE COMPILED A LIST OF OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO DO WITH BACKGROUND SCREENING. IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR BELOW, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM!

At CRI® Group, we specialise in employment screening, working as trusted partners to HR and recruiting managers of corporations and institutions worldwide. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates.

LET’S TALK

Does a candidate have to give consent to process a background check?

A job applicant must give written or electronic consent before any screening conducting (whether in-house or by a third party company like CRI® Group) any criminal record search, credit history check or reference interview, etc.

How long does it take to conduct a background check?

Background checks typically take 2 to 3 days to process and receive back from the outside contracted agency. A few exceptions may take up to 2 weeks. A background check may rarely take longer than 3 to 4 weeks. Please allow additional processing time for each background check in the event of a delay. A delay can occur for any of the following reasons:

  • The information has been entered incorrectly by the applicant or the requestor into the vendor’s system.
  • The county or district listed for a background check in researching whether the applicant has any criminal felony or misdemeanour charges is delayed in responding to the vendor.

When should I conduct pre-employment checks?

Pre-employment screening services can help you avoid adding potential fraudsters and other bad actors to your staff. These checks can be implemented before or after a job offer (with each having its pros and cons).

How often should I screen employees?

Employees should be screened regularly to reveal any new information relevant to the business. That’s why our background investigations services also include:

  • Employee monitoring & risk management
  • Data protection compliance
  • Employee testing & confidentiality
  • Employee risk management
  • Post-employment background checks

How to collect references and what to ask?

Because it is impossible to know how your candidate will work daily from just one interview, you will need references. References are a great way to find out whether your candidates are suitable for the role or will fit with your company culture. A primary reference check asks for:

  • Employment dates
  • Employment main responsibilities
  • Attendance record
  • Any disciplinary actions against them
  • Any reasons why they shouldn’t be employed

These references will help you back up their CV – however, many candidates tend to exaggerate or misrepresent themselves. Third-party vendors such as CRI® Group can go beyond to get a fuller picture for you:

  • Greatest strengths?
  • Are they suitable for the role they’ve applied for?
  • Would they rehire the candidate?
  • Suitable management style?
  • Do they have any leadership skills?
  • Situations in which they have excelled at?

Note: Some companies have policies not giving references and just providing necessary employment details, while others direct you towards HR.

How much does it cost to conduct a background check?

That will depend on the scope. Please contact the team for a free consultation.

What are employment references?

CRI® Group’s comprehensive and detailed reference checks have been carefully designed for senior-level positions. Our highly skilled researchers probe extensively across a range of performance and behavioural attributes that have been specifically targeted to meet the information and management requirements of hiring senior-level executives.

We also verify any restrictive covenants, disciplinary actions or warnings; attendance or reliability issues; claims by or their former employer; acts of dishonesty, and eligibility for rehire in a comparable role. We provide a valuable perspective of an individual’s past performance and behaviours by conducting professional, impartial references.

What is the difference between employment history verification & employment reference?

CRI® Group verifies who the individual reported to and their dates of employment, positions held, remuneration, responsibilities and reason for leaving. This is different to an Employment Reference as it verifies quantitative information such as employment dates, salary packages etc.

Media search

An individual’s media profile can encompass both professional and personal activities. This check can provide the client with a unique insight into an individual’s public activities and reputation. Our broad-based press search encompasses electronically available national newspapers and regional media sources from states where an individual has worked, helping to ensure that there are no hidden surprises. The search can be conducted by country, region or globally, where it can be of immense value in the uncovering of omissions made by the candidate (note: additional charges apply).

How do I check on entitlement to work?

It is an employer’s responsibility to ensure that every individual they hire is legally eligible to work in certain Jurisdictions. CRI® Group uses copies of the candidate’s passport or birth certificate to verify entitlement to work in the respective Jurisdiction. Where the candidate is not a local citizen, we have an online verification process set up with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, as the case may be, to confirm eligibility to work. We will confirm whether or not the candidate is entitled to work in Australia and provide details of any limitations attached to a work visa. This search verifies and appropriately documents the individual’s entitlement to work in accordance with DIMIA requirements.

How do you conduct identity checks?

The availability of identity checks varies from nation to nation, depending on centralised databases and legislation. In essence, these checks are designed to ensure the person is who they claim to be. Where there is a recognised legislated identity card system, CRI® Group will collect this card, ensure the details are reflected on the background check form submitted and upload the identity card to the candidate file to allow for the requestor to sight.

Identity theft is on the rise, and validating an individual’s identity is essential to making an informed hiring decision. CRI® Group verifies an individual’s identity details via a comparison with details held in the electoral roll, online telephone directory and the National database registration authorities.

Passport check

This passport verification solution enables the client to verify a person’s identity and whether their passport is forged. Passport Check verifies the authenticity of machine-readable passports and identity documents by simply entering the passport/ID data.

CV comparison check

Curricula Vitae (CV) are increasingly being used as a sales tool rather than a factual account of a person’s work history. This check will compare information supplied by the candidate to CRI Group with details supplied to an organisation in a candidate’s CV. This check aims to provide a thorough review of the candidate’s background and reveal any misrepresentations that may exist through a candidate omitting or overstating information on their CV.

DOWNLOAD THE EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND SCREENING FAQs HERE

Supply Chain Due Diligence Act: New risk management & reporting duties for German businesses

This article looks at the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) that applies to companies operating or trading in Germany and will enter into force on 1 January 2023.

The new German law, known as the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG, short for Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz in German) imposes due diligence obligations on environmental protection and on human rights, with all businesses having to introduce iterative and ongoing, or in certain circumstances ad hoc, due diligence processes specified by the Act.

Identification and management of an organisation’s supply chain and the risks that come with it require the implementation of due diligence processes.

The term “supply chain” refers to all products/services of a business, including all manufacturing and services, in Germany and/or abroad, from the extraction of raw materials to their delivery to the end customer.

Furthermore, due diligence processes should implement the following criteria: 

  • type and scope of the business activities of the company subject to the due diligence obligations,
  • the ability of the company subject to the due diligence obligations to exert influence (so-called leverage),
  • typically expected severity of the violation, and
  • type of contribution by the company subject to the due diligence obligations to cause a violation.

More details can be had in our FREE Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) eBook.

Who is affected by the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act?

  • As of 1 January 2023: Companies with at least 3,000 employees that have their head office, administrative seat or statutory seat in Germany OR companies that have a branch in Germany and usually employ at least 3,000 employees in this branch;
  • As of 1 January 2024: Companies with at least 1,000 employees that have their head office, administrative seat or statutory seat in Germany OR companies that have a branch in Germany and usually employ at least 1,000 employees in this branch.

From 2024, the law will apply to businesses with more than 1,000 employees.

Even if companies with fewer employees are not addressees of the Supply Chain Act, they may still be indirectly affected. This is because the companies directly affected would be obliged to enforce compliance to the best of their ability with human rights in their supply chain. The measures necessary for this can have a direct impact on their suppliers, for example, through the implementation of a code of conduct. In addition, the directly affected companies will often be dependent on the active support of their suppliers and thus have this support be contractually assured, e.g. in the form of reporting obligations as part of their risk analysis.

DOWNLOAD THE SUPPLY CHAIN DUE DILIGENCE ACT (LkSG) EBOOK.

Due Diligence investigations: Mitigate Critical Risks

At CRI®, we provide corporate reporting and due diligence services wherever you are. Use our DueDiligence360™ reports to help you comply with anti-money laundering, anti-bribery, and anti-corruption regulations ahead of a merger, acquisition, or joint venture. You can also use them for third-party risk assessment, onboarding decision-making, and identifying beneficial ownership structures.

Due Diligence helps you Identify key risk issues clearly and concisely using accurate information in a well-structured and transparent report format. Our comprehensive range of reports includes specialised reports that support specific compliance requirements. Protect your reputation and the risk of financial damage and regulator action using our detailed reports. They enhance your knowledge and understanding of the customer, supplier, and third-party risk, helping you avoid those involved with financial crime.

The CRI® Group invites you to schedule a quick appointment with them to discuss in more detail how conducting due diligence and compliance can help you and your organisation.

Based in London, CRI® Group works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific as a one-stop international Risk ManagementEmployee Background ScreeningBusiness IntelligenceTPRMDue DiligenceCompliance Solutions and other professional Investigative Research solutions provider.

We have the largest proprietary network of background-screening analysts and investigators across the Middle East and Asia. Our global presence ensures that no matter how international your operations are we have the network needed to provide you with all you need, wherever you happen to be. CRI® Group also holds BS 102000:2013 and BS 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.
CONTACT US

 

FREE eBook | Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG)

In January 2023 a new German law, known as the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG, short for Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz in German), becomes effective and applies to companies operating or trading in Germany. This eBook looks at the key issues in the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.

The Supply Chain Due Diligence Act requires businesses to undergo significant efforts in order to achieve compliance. The law introduces a legal requirement for businesses to manage social and environmental issues in their supply chains, through more responsible business practices. We’ve compiled more details on the act in our FREE ebook that can be downloaded now!

DOWNLOAD THE FREE EBOOK

What is the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act all about?

In Part 1 of this eBook, we will provide a first outline of the Act’s material contents and an in-depth analysis of the applicability of the Act to various corporate structures.

The eBook is the collection of a series of articles in which we will take a closer look at key issues. It addresses the question of what you can do to adequately prepare yourself at this early stage rather than wait till later in the year. We would be happy to provide you with individual advice, as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE EBOOK

Preparatory actions for Supply Chain Due Diligence Act

In Part Two of the Playbook, we’ll explore what preparatory actions you can take and how an effective risk management plan can be achieved and implemented through several services including due diligence.

Global integrity due diligence investigations provide your business with the critical information it needs in making sound decisions regarding mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships and the selection of vendors and suppliers. The level of due diligence will ensure that working with a potential i.e. trade partner will ultimately achieve your organisation’s strategic and financial goals.

Operating in the international market requires organisations to establish partnerships with numerous third parties, which supply raw materials, run business operations abroad and/or act as agents. At the same time, third parties are considered as the greatest area of bribery risks for international enterprises. Under the Bribery Act 2010, British-based organisations have to conduct due diligence on their third parties as the core principle of meeting the adequate procedures requirement.

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IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM!

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Employee background screening FAQs – PART I: What, Why and Who?

How do you know the candidate you just offered a role to is the ideal candidate, when it comes to Employee Background Screening? Are you 100% sure that everything they’re telling you is the truth? Or are you 90% certain? They showed you a diploma: How do you know it’s not photoshopped? Did you follow the correct procedures during your background checks process? Who Performs Background Screening? What’s Involved in Background Checks covering History Around the Globe? Why do Employers Check Criminal History?

Employee Background Screening: What, Why & Who?

This three-part series of articles looks at employee background screening FAQs.

Part One of the series, “What, Why and Who?” provides an introduction to employee background checks and the necessary screenings that are vital to avoid horror stories and taboo tales that occur within your business. Part Two, “Pre-Employment Checks,” are essentially an investigation into a person’s character – inside and outside their professional lives. Part Three, “Conflict of interest check & FACIS Searches,” checks for any conflict of interests and sanctions, exclusions, debarments and disciplinary actions. To receive the next series subscribe to our monthly newsletter subscribe now!

Taken as a whole, this ebook on employee background screening FAQs developed by the CRI® Group is the perfect primer for HR professionals and companies wanting guidance on background screening, pre-employment screening and post-employment background checks.

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WE’VE COMPILED A LIST OF OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO DO WITH BACKGROUND SCREENING. IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR BELOW, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM!

At CRI® Group, we specialise in employment screening, working as trusted partners to HR and recruiting managers of corporations and institutions worldwide. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates. Simply investing in sufficient screening systems can save you time, money and heartbreak.

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Why conduct pre-employment background checks?

To protect the company from various potential risks, a background check is considered an imperative pre-employment screening step before hiring. Companies often assume that the applicants are telling the truth on their resumes – what if they are not?

These checks are essentially an investigation into a person’s character – inside and outside their professional lives. Some checks you probably already carry out in-house, such as the candidate’s qualifications (documents provided), work history (with a reference check), right to work in the country and even a quick social media presence scan.

A Pre Employment Background Check: Who conducts it?

Permanent, temporary, benefit-eligible, non-benefit eligible, full-time and part-time staff require an acceptable background check.

Former employees, including retirees, are also subject to a background check if a contract breach occurs.

You could have an in-house HR team or contract with a third party vendor like CRI® Group.

Why should I contract a third party vendor if I have an in-house team?

You may have the capabilities to carry out the above services; however, to perform a full in-depth background screening service for candidates and employees at all levels, you need a considerable amount of manpower and skills – and it can be all-consuming work.

A third party vendor such as CRI® Group, with a global network that works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, is a one-stop international Risk Management, Background Screening and Due Diligence solutions provider that brings true value to you and your team.

By contracting, you can benefit from the following:

  • Cost Control & Savings
  • Time Savings / Response Time
  • Customer Service / Quality Control
  • Expertise & Core Competency
  • Technology & know-how

What other checks can a third party vendor execute better than my in-house team?

From checks on senior executives through to shop-floor employees, a full in-depth background check should include:

  • Address Verification (Physical Verification)
  • Identity Verification
  • Previous Employment Verification
  • Education & Credential Verification
  • Local Language Media Check
  • Credit Verification & Financial History (where publicly available)
  • Compliance & Regulatory Check
  • Civil Litigation Record Check
  • Bankruptcy Record Check
  • International Criminal Record Check
  • Integrity Due Diligence…
    and more.

Why is it important?

These checks can reduce the risk of hiring someone who could cause irrevocable damage. Firms spend years, thousands, even millions to brand their products and services and one bad hire can cause a loss of capital and reputation to the extent that may cause a business to fail. A robust pre-employment check can help you and your company:

  • Reduce turnover & training costs
  • Gain a competitive edge through the hiring of better people
  • Increase productivity – help your employees be more productive knowing that everyone employed by your company has been screened
  • Set your company apart & win more business
  • Reduce employee-related problems
  • Protect company reputation/brand & customer relations
  • Comply with mandates created by state or federal law for certain industries
  • Increase retention
  • Reduce negligent hiring claims
  • Avoid violence in the workplace (threats of violence & actual violence)
  • Reduce theft & espionage
  • Avoid lawsuits & the costs associated with the defence
  • Avoid loss of goodwill
  • Various industry studies indicate escalating costs for worker replacement, loss of production, re-recruitment/interviewing, and training – the learning curve can cost you significant money.

DOWNLOAD THE EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND SCREENING FAQs FREE EBOOK HERE

WEBINAR RECORDING | ‘Remote work & other trends shaping workplace cultures’

CRI® Group hosted a free webinar on August 31st. Our intention was to be able to provide resources on workplace cultures in organisations around the globe that will aid them in expansion and an positive employee environment. Take advantage of this free recording on employee wellness, remote work, pre-employment screening and workplace cultures.

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The live training session was conducted by senior certified HR professional and member of CRI’s expert team, Nilofar A. Gardezi​. 

Improving workplace cultures

Workplace trends are dictating major shifts and becoming new norms in the workplace. These trends are expected to grow in the coming years. Examples of this include hybrid work, employee wellness, and ongoing education. Adapting to workplace trends will help employers improve company culture, boost employee retention and defeat workplace complacency. This will help companies stay competitive within the industry and remain relevant in the wider world.

With over nine years of experience in HR, Nilofar A. Gardezi​ is a HRBP & an Associate Director with the CRI Group. She is a gold-certified Trainer from DWE with a Certification in Psychology and serves as a Certified Professional Counsellor. She has worked with renowned organisations like Attock Group, British Council and Standard Chartered Bank.

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Struggling with employee screening?

Get answers to frequently asked questions about background checks / screening cost,  guidelines, check references etc. This eBook is a compilation of all of the background screening related questions you ever needed answers to:

  • Does a candidate have to give consent to process a background check / screening?
  • How long does it take to conduct a background check?
  • When should I conduct pre-employment checks?
  • How often should I screen employees?
  • How to collect references and what to ask?
  • How much does it cost to conduct a background checks?
  • What is he difference between employment history verification and employment reference?
  • How do I check on entitlement to work?
  • How to conduct identity checks?
  • What will a financial regulatory check show?
  • Is it possible to identify conflict of interest during checks?
  • What is a bankruptcy check?
  • What about directorships and shareholding search?
  • Can I have access to a criminal watch list?
  • Anti-money laundering check?
  • Can we conduct FACIS (fraud and abuse control information system) searches?
  • … and MORE!

Taken as a whole, is the perfect primer for any HR professional, business leader and companies looking to avoid employee background screening risks. It provides the tools and knowledge needed to make the right decisions.

Download your “Employee Background Screening FAQ” FREE ebook now!

The CRI® Group has been safeguarding businesses from fraud, bribery and corruption since 1990. We are a global company based in London, United Kingdom. Our experts and resources are located in key regional marketplaces. These are across the Asia Pacific, South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, North and South America. Our global team can support your organisation anywhere in the world. ​For more details about the CRI® Group or to schedule a meeting with us, click here.