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The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for industries, organisations and their teams on every level. HR leaders had to quickly adapt to a new normal. Along with coping with the closing of workplaces and adjusting to working from home, many organisations had significant changes in their recruitment, vetting and onboarding activities. With two-thirds of […]

In the business world, due diligence refers to the investigation and steps taken by organisations to satisfy all legal requirements before buying or selling products/ services or entering into a contract or a financial arrangement with another party. An Integrity Due Diligence allows an organisation to reduce risks – including risks arising from the FCPA (Foreign Corrupt [...]

Having dedicated his career to fraud prevention, protective integrity, security and compliance, Zafar Anjum is a distinguished and highly respected professional in his field. As Group Chief Executive Officer at Corporate Research and Investigations Limited, he uses his extensive knowledge and expertise in creating stable and secure networks across challenging global markets. For organisations needing [...]

It's an exciting time for a company when business is growing and there is a need to add more employees and start a hiring process. But how to ensure everything goes according to the plan now and in the future? How well do you know your candidates and employees? Can you trust them? There are [...]

The European Union’s (EU) General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force in 2018. The GDPR was a response to massive worldwide data breaches that were undermining the trust and security of private citizens whose personal information was at stake. As this data was exposed by both hackers and, in some cases, simply through poor […]

The United Kingdom scores 77 out of 100 on Transparency International’s (TI)  2020 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), as is one of the 25 least corrupt countries across the globe. However, it all seems great on the surface as corporate fraud and corruption cases have been noticeable in various industries across the UK. TI reports that […]

By Ayesha Sikander, Group HR Manager at CRI Group

Running worldwide businesses requires effectively recognising, analysing and managing risks and ensuring compliance. We have identified that many organisations having third-party relationships conduct inadequate due diligence that might posses significant risks. In this article, we look at the possible risks and the best practices for conducting adequate due diligence and third-party risk management effectively such […]

The COVID-19 has resulted in an exponential growth in connectivity between people around the globe. As the workforce of many organisations continues to work from home it also becomes more globalised. However new challenges have risen in maintaining an effective and compliant employment background screening program. To measure the pulse of human resources during a […]

There are inherent risks in the hiring process, including fraudulent claims by candidates. These include everything from relatively minor transgressions, like stretching employment dates, to severe and concerning deceptions, such as claiming unearned degrees or credentials or hiding one’s criminal record. Being aware of these risks is only the first step, and companies that don’t […]

The newly published Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI 2020) has ranked 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption. This index uses a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. CPI 2020 identified that despite progress, most countries still struggle to stop […]

Organisations now, more than ever, become vulnerable and have to take actions now to protect themselves, reputation, employees and other stakeholders from bribery and corruption associated risks. The recently celebrated International Anti-Corruption Day drew attention to these sometimes hidden risks worldwide, and many organisation joined for this day to raise awareness of how to stop corruption inside […]

When it comes to providing information security, financial audits, risk assessments, background checks, due diligence and a wide range of anti-fraud related services, maintaining the highest levels of training and expertise is an absolute must. That’s why CRI Group achieves critical certifications from the British Standards Institute (BSI), the National Association of Background Screeners (NAPBS) and other preeminent groups […]

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the 21 least corrupt nation out of 180 countries, according to the 2019 Corruption Perceptions Index reported by Transparency International.  However, UAE corporate fraud and corruption still prevails as UAE is just one of many enablers of global corruption, crime, and illicit financial flows. Addressing the emirate’s role presents anti-corruption […]

This three-part series of articles examines the problem of insurance fraud, including its pervasiveness and general characteristics in the United States, the United Kingdom and the world. Insurance fraud is a widespread problem that requires real solutions and is often difficult to detect and combat. Part One of the series, “What is Insurance Fraud,” provides […]

ILO (International Labour Organization) has updated “ILO Monitor: COVID-19 and the world of work. Second edition”. Since the first edition, the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated in terms of intensity and expanded its global reach. According to ILO, full or partial lockdown measures are now affecting almost 2.7 billion workers, representing around 81% of the world’s workforce. Leaders […]

Whatever your reasons or motivations might be, if your organisation's objective is to have an effective risk management strategy in place, then ISO 31000 can provide the principles, framework and a process for managing risk. ISO 31000 is not a certifiable standard; the standard is a set of guidelines which provide guidance for internal or [...]

The recent update of the BS7858 standard, “Screening of Individuals Working in a Secure Environment – Code of Practice,” places emphasis on the risk assessment of secure environment workers. The code focuses on the need for tighter controls over the pre-employment screening – and periodic re-screening – of individuals, who in their positions could potentially benefit from […]

International Fraud Awareness Week, 15-21 November 2020 – and CRI Group is once again a proud Official Supporter of this global movement. Fraud Week was created to reduce the impact of fraud and corruption by promoting anti-fraud awareness and education. Fraud statistics Fraud is still increasingly common. Even when it comes to hiring employees, companies [...]

COVID-19 continues to affect businesses in a myriad of ways. Organisations are having to adapt quickly to the fast-changing climate of the pandemic, and unfortunately, we've recently noticed some business practices of cutting steps in a few internal processes, such as hiring, or lack of risk management controls. It's the vulnerable time for organisations - [...]

In part 1, we discussed how ISO 37001 ABMS can help companies across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aviation and insurance. In part 2, we looked at how pharma and healthcare, property, IT and telecommunications organisations can benefit from Anti-Bribery solutions as well. In this final part, we will explore some aspects of how companies [...]

This three-part series of articles examines the problem of insurance fraud, including its pervasiveness and general characteristics in the United States, the United Kingdom and the world. Insurance fraud is a widespread problem that requires real solutions and is often difficult to detect and combat. Part One of the series, “What is Insurance Fraud,” provides […]

SEC’s Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations Issues COVID-19 Risk Alert Lexology reported that “On August 12, 2020, the SEC’s Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations (OCIE), issued a risk alert highlighting COVID-19 compliance risks and considerations for broker-dealers and investment advisers. The risk alert highlights six categories of compliance risk: Protection of investors’ assets, Supervision […]

An overwhelming number of COVID-19 background screening survey respondents said that the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting human resources at their company. There are also concerns about fraud, and the protection of confidential information as a large percentage of the workforce has gone virtual in work-from-home (WFH) arrangements. CRI Group conducted the survey to measure the […]

Macy’s Reaches Agreement in Lawsuit Involving Employee Background Screening ESR News reported that “an agreement has been reached in the case of The Fortune Society v. Macy’s brought under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Fair Chance Act (FCA) of the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) that sought to address criminal background checks by Macy’s in New York City, [...]

Corporate fraud and corruption is growing in United Kingdom (UK). In a devastating article, Oliver Bullough proved that UK is quickly becoming the money-laundering capital of the world. In addition, the most recent The Guardian article "If you think the UK isn't corrupt, you haven't looked hard enough" by George Monbiot highlighted that billions of pounds of COVID-19 contracts issued [...]

International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has launched an Anti-corruption Third Party Due Diligence guide for small and medium size entities. SMEs are often on the receiving end of burdensome due diligence procedures of large multi-national companies. These requirements can be overwhelming and often companies feel they do not have sufficient resources to meet them. This Guide aims [...]

In part 1, we discussed how ISO 37001 ABMS can help companies across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aviation and insurance. In this part, we look at how pharma and healthcare, property, IT and telecommunications, financial, oil and energy organisations can benefit from Anti-Bribery solutions as well. Pharma and Healthcare Corruption involving pharmaceutical companies […]

CRI Group’s ABAC® Center of Excellence Limited is excited to be celebrating the 4 years anniversary since its formation back in 2016. At ABAC®, we are committed to helping businesses fight bribery and corruption inside and outside their organisations. Every day, we work extensively to promote transparent business relations across the world and spread knowledge about the negative […]

The Current Business Climate Requires a Review and Reassessment of Your Organisation's Third-Party Relationships.We won't soon forget the year 2020 and the myriad ways worldwide business was derailed over a microscopic virus that caused a global pandemic. From layoffs and shutdowns to shortages and closures, the long-term effects of the pandemic have yet to be [...]

Fraud investigators are the front line of establishing the facts of suspected fraud or other unethical business behaviour. A fraud investigator’s skillset and wide knowledge of fraud laws, evidence gathering and interviewing make them the go-to expert for investigating insurance fraud, financial fraud, procurement fraud, asset recovery, cyber fraud, healthcare fraud, retail fraud and other […]

Middle east corruption is a threat to the world. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a land of complex extremes where fabulous wealth and supercars live right next to staggering poverty. This is generally a recipe for fraud and corruption. However UAE has been talking the right steps towards a fraud free future. This Financier Worldwide Q&A session with our […]

Organisations of all industries, from financial institutions to international energy companies, can gain distinct benefits from ABAC® Certification for ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System standard. The fact is, any company is potentially susceptible to bribery and corruption. Some industries face increased risk – which is why CRI Group’s ABAC® tailors ISO 37001 for companies across […]

This three-part series of articles examines the problem of insurance fraud, including its pervasiveness and general characteristics in the United States, the United Kingdom and the world. Insurance fraud is a widespread problem that requires real solutions and is often difficult to detect and combat. Part One of the series, “What is Insurance Fraud,” provides […]

The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted business as we know it. How is the crisis affecting your organisation? Are you experiencing a temporary decline in hiring, or does hiring seem to be non-stop? No matter your industry, the hiring environment has changed with some companies experiencing an increase in onboarding new employees. Many companies are still [...]

As a result of COVID-19, countries all over the world are facing significant economic disruption, insecurity and suffering, which has created an increased risk of bribery and corruption.  News in the first two quarters of 2020 showed that many governments began to implement measures to combat these implications from the global pandemic.   Kenyan Anti-bribery […]

As of 13 August 2020, COVID-19 has affected more than million people globally, including 744,385 deaths, reported to WHO. The virus has also had severe economic implications, leaving organisations facing a unique set of new challenges that can only be summed up in one word: uncertainty. And the only way to navigate these uncertain times is [...]

As of 13 August 2020, COVID-19 has affected more than million people globally, including 744,385 deaths, reported to WHO. The virus has also had severe economic implications, leaving organisations facing a unique set of new challenges that can only be summed up in one word: uncertainty. And the only way to navigate these uncertain times is […]

The Little Book of Big Scams was released in 2012 by The Metropolitan Police Service’s Operation and after its huge success the MET has released a new version. The Little Book of Big Scams is specifically designed to protect small and medium enterprises (SMEs). SMEs accounts for 99% of all UK businesses and employ over […]

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released a guide for small business. Scams & Your Small Business guide is part of FTC’s efforts to help small business owners to avoid scams. If you are a small business owner or are part of a non-profit organisation, you spend a time and energy on making sure your organisation […]

Seven Traits of a Resilient Leader Every successful leader has encountered a challenging scenario at some point in their career. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, however, has forced leaders to face unforeseen new challenges. With the pandemic’s colossal impact on operations, workforces, profits and supply chains across the globe, all eyes are on leadership to guide […]

When Société Générale, a global financial services institution based in France, agreed to pay a combined total penalty of more than $860 million for an alleged bribery and corruption scheme, it served as a warning shot to financial firms worldwide that a culture of enforcement has arrived. Société Générale was accused of paying bribes to […]

On 30 January 2017, following a four-month trial, former HBOS employees Scourfield and Mark Dobson involved in HBOS scandal were convicted of fraud and corruption involving a scheme that cost the bank £245m. Scourfield pleaded guilty to six counts including corruption, and Dobson was found guilty of counts including bribery, fraud and money laundering. The HBOS (Halifax […]

Want to know what types of red flags are most often found on résumés and employment applications? CRI Group’s EmploySmart™ experts provided some statistics on their latest pre- and post-employment screening engagements, and they give insights into where companies are most vulnerable in the hiring process. background screening red flags The operations team found that providing […]

What does an embezzler spend their money on? In the case of a New York man’s alleged fraud, just about everything, apparently. According to IDentutyUSA identity theft is on the rise during COVID-19 pandemic. Experts predict that one out of every four people in the United States will be a victim of this growing crime trend […]

According to Investor’s Globe – a unified hub for information and ideas relating to investment – Asia Pacific (APAC) is the fastest growing economic region of the world and investors’ top choice. Further, in a list of top five economies until 2023 published by FocusEconomics, three including China, Japan and India belong to the APAC […]

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Fraud poses a major threat to the UK and the world. The slow progress in fighting fraud in 2019 was evident to all of us with the never-ending stream of news stories documenting bribery and corruption cases around the world in 2019. We documented each with our article on Top 10 Bribery and Corruption Cases of 2019  where we count […]

The Fraud Advisory Panel have set up a COVID-19 fraud watch group.  A cross-sector and cross-industry coalition of trusted partners (including the Cabinet Office and City of London Police) who meet weekly to share information on emerging fraud threats and trends affecting business. The panel aims to act as a conduit to warn the public, […]

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the world and businesses in a fundamental way. In this time of crisis, businesses are having to adapt quickly in order to survive, and that sometimes means cutting costs and steps in various business processes – including hiring practices. Unfortunately, neglecting to conduct proper due diligence in terms of pre-employment […]

When you download an app and it asks to access your contacts, location, and other information, it seems harmless enough, right? Surely the app will only use your data for its stated purpose, and only when needed? We all know that is not the whole truth. However, with COVID-19 forcing your workforce to embrace new practices […]

It’s one of the most common forms of occupational fraud: employees fudging on their expense accounts. Earlier this month (June, 2020), Lookers (London-listed company) warned investors they might be unable to buy and sell its shares from the beginning of July because of potential fraud on its books – confirming £19m charge to correct books after fraud inquiry. Whether […]

Business leaders are usually quick to communicate their expectations to employees, especially when it comes to financial goals or tasks that they want accomplished. However, what is often lacking is a clear, concise explanation of what the organisation expects in terms of ethical behaviour. The recent article “Puffery or Not? Courts Examine Corporate Codes of […]

Background screening is an essential process for achieving hiring success – finding the right person for the right job at the right time. The biggest investment today that a business can make is in their new employees, as with each new hiring, they invest time, training, and resources. Background screening is important because it protects […]

Fraud, bribery and corruption cause serious harm to business. They can have a major financial impact, damage an organisation’s hard-earned reputation and destroy company culture. That’s why at CRI group we focus on helping organisations address these risks – as a team effort. All fraud, bribery and corruption (collectively referred to as economic crime) is unacceptable and […]

Fraud and corruption are always evolving. Changes in methods, technology and other factors make it critically important those trying to prevent and detect it to evolve, as well. Part of that process is to analyse fraud, corruption, bribery, money laundering and other crimes through the lense of research and casework. When experts share their findings […]

The hiring process can be an exciting time for both the candidate and the employer, especially if is due to a growing business. However, it presents a degree of risk, as well. Organisations that bring new employees into their fold and entrust them with their business, processes and assets are playing with fire if they […]

Defined in the most basic way, due diligence means taking reasonable steps to satisfy legal requirements in the conduct of business relations. The reality of proper due diligence, however, means so much more: it allows you to reduce risks, including risks arising from the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and the UK Bribery Act, to [...]

To many bribery cases are in the headlines, but all of these provide lessons for business leaders around the world. As reported in the Industry resource, Alere Inc., a global manufacturer of rapid point-of-care diagnostic tests, will pay more than $13 million to settle charges that it bribed foreign officials and committed accounting fraud to meet revenue targets. What […]

Gender-based violence is constantly on the rise - research by the UN Women, “The economic costs of violence against women” suggests that the cost of violence against women is 2% of global GDP, equivalent to US$1.5 trillion - incorporating gender-based violence into risk and mitigation analyses is a must. The company and country-level economic costs of violence include losses in productivity and increases in health and legal [...]

In 2016, responding to the need for a global standard to help organisations prevent and detect bribery and corruption, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced ISO 37001: Anti-Bribery Management Systems. This certification provides the anti-bribery framework for organisations of any size or industry to implement practical solutions against bribery. Perhaps overlooked, however, is the [...]

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 our employees and co-workers, and we keep our focus on succeeding as a team and accomplishing our goals for the business. Nobody wants […]

Fraud doesn’t take a break in times of crisis – in fact, that’s often when it thrives. And the same is true for supplier fraud. Unethical business practices by third-party partners can directly impact your organisation in all sorts of ways. This type of fraud can cause financial, logistical, and reputational harm. Locked in the grips [...]

Since its launch in 2016, ISO 37001 Anti-Bribery Management Systems standard has had its supporters and critics. Some regulatory bodies and compliance communities initially expressed concern regarding the lack of a body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of ISO 37001:2016 from certain standpoints. Critics asserted that the new standard failed to address broad compliance concerns, [...]

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major crisis for businesses and employees around the world. To make matters worse, some unscrupulous employers in the UK have abused the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme by engaging in furlough fraud. They do this by accepting taxpayer money designed to help them pay salaries for furloughed workers, who are […]

While the United Kingdom has positioned itself as a leader in the fight against fraud and corruption, the shifting economic conditions surrounding Brexit have raised uncertainty and vulnerability. As some organisations are forced to forge new trade deals outside of already established European Union (EU) relationships, some experts warn that there will be more exposure [...]

Accreditation has a positive impact on consumers, suppliers, purchasers, and regulators across industries and organisations all over the world. Proper accreditation and certification can demonstrate necessary expertise and training, and ensure quality and reputability. That’s why CRI Group and ABAC® Center of Excellence Limited will celebrate World Accreditation Day on Tuesday, 9 June 2020. We […]

Preventing bribery and corruption is a global effort that crosses international borders… Preventing bribery and corruption is a global effort that crosses international borders. In just the past few years, many governments have enacted more laws and regulations to reflect that reality. European, Middle Eastern and African (EMEA) countries are no exception – in many […]

Combating corruption has increasing risen to the top of policymakers and company agendas. Despite the fact that it has long been a prevalent issue, there is a greater awareness of the negative implications of corruption on both social and economic development. Malaysia has a history of implementing measures to tackle corruption and bribery, with cases [...]

CRI Group has been approved by the HRO Today Association as a Certified Provider to the human resources services industry. CRI Group completed a rigorous audit process and “demonstrated a high level of accountability of standards and ethics,” according to an HRO Today Association statement. Established in 1990, We are a leading global provider of […]

A global crisis calls for a fresh due-diligence and risk management review of your company’s third-party partnerships The worldwide coronavirus pandemic has disrupted life in just about every sense of the word, from personal health concerns and social distancing to shelter-in-place mandates and business closures. But in the corporate world, life plods on. Critical concerns about […]

Even with much of the world under partial lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been no shortage of bribery and corruption cases through the first half of 2020. Each of these stories makes it clear that organisations must have proper controls in place to prevent bribery and corruption. ISO 37001 Anti-Bribery Management Systems standard provides [...]

Sometimes business owners or management have an outsized sense of business risks for a particular threat. For example, some companies place extreme emphasis on guarding their intellectual property (IP), when in actuality the incidence of IP theft for their industry might be low. Other times, however, their priorities are firmly in line with the threat […]

First-world countries are not immune to the worldwide problem of corruption. As a matter of fact, the United States – considered by many as one of the leaders in anti-corruption laws and enforcement – has faced a rash of major corruption scandals over the past 20 years and beyond. In the early 2000s, accounting scandals [...]

Times are changing, and the resources required to conduct background searches and investigations have strained businesses worldwide. With a dramatic rise in business liability associated with hiring the wrong individuals and the increase in penalties imposed on companies that extend from C-suites to Boards of Directors, businesses are taking a closer look at the systems, [...]

In a time of crisis, we often see the best in people. Even before COVID-19 was officially classified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a global pandemic, citizens and government leaders alike were praising the selfless sacrifice of doctors, nurses, first responders and others putting themselves in harm’s way to help treat and limit […]

It's a fact that some of the most talented and promising job candidates possess the most disturbing pasts. Such deception can lead to a perilous future for an employer. This is the primary reason businesses are strongly advised to conduct background screening investigations before hiring seemingly well-qualified managerial candidates. background screening Privacy Laws Compliance In every [...]

“Adequate procedures” is a term made popular through the UK Bribery Act of 2010. It presents the potential of a company avoiding liability for failing to prevent bribery if that organisation can fully demonstrate clear, sound and established policies and procedures that deter individuals (inside and outside of the organisation) from partaking in questionable or [...]

Background screening is critically important for business worldwide. Providing such service is a complex process, and it is different for every country and region. In the United States, investigators have a web of databases at their disposal and a vast network of local resources that provide a wealth of information at the mere click of […]

Malaysia is taking a further step against corruption with its new Corporate Liability Provisions of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (Amendment) Act 2018. The new provisions go into force this June. The measure has been compared to the UK Bribery Act 2010 and the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) 1977 (The Star, 2019). Section 17A [...]

ABAC Center of Excellence Limited announced that the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) has accredited its ABAC Certification services for administering the ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems standard. ABAC Center of Excellence Limited provides ISO 37001:2016 anti-bribery management systems certification for organisations that implement prescribed measures to prevent, detect and address bribery. Pursuant to this, […]

At CRI Group's ABAC® Center of Excellence Limited, we are affiliated with leading certification and accreditation bodies around the world. These affiliations and accreditations help demonstrate the high level of experience and knowledge we provide in anti-bribery, risk and compliance management to our clients on a daily basis. That’s why ABAC® has achieved essential accreditations from [...]

Are you establishing the legal compliance, financial viability, and integrity levels of outside partners, suppliers and customers seeking to affiliate with your business? It's highly probable that, at some point, organisations that affiliate with outside providers will eventually have to deal with an operational interruption resulting from third-party related issues and inappropriate conduct. The risks [...]

Smart business leaders know that “Tone at the Top” is a critical factor in the culture of an organisation. The behaviour and attitudes exhibited by those at the top of the chain set an example for the rest of the staff to follow. This couldn’t be more true when it comes to ethical standards. If a company is [...]

In business, one of the many schemes that can cause serious legal and financial consequences is collusion. While some business leaders might wonder what separates collusion from other types of fraud, and how to identify it, there is a key factor: secrecy. Collusion involves at least two parties (sometimes more) who collaborate in an effort […]

Corporate fraud is only one form of transnational financial crimes and money laundering is a prominent form which involves the false legitimisation of illegal funds (Unger & Van Der Linde, 2013, p. 22). Increasing attention has been given to this form of financial crime, particularly on an international level, which has provoked the creation of laws [...]

The Managing risk is a critical part of the success of any organisation. Whether you’re an experienced risk professional or just trying to understand risk, ISO 31000 is a great resource for your organisation, no matter the size or industry. Issued in 2009 by International Organization for Standardization, ISO 31000 Risk Management standard helps address operational [...]

The job of a compliance officer can be a difficult one. Organisations from large corporations down to small government agencies rely on their compliance officers to keep them within ethical and legal boundaries. They also rely on them to maintain monitoring and reporting requirements, and stay abreast of any changes in the compliance landscape. For […]

Interested in employee integrity due diligence and pre-employment screening? Or are you engaging in a merger or acquisition, an IPO, engaging suppliers, contractors, or new clients and looking for third-party risk management solutions? Background checks and necessary screenings are vital to avoid horror stories and taboo tales that occur within HR, your business or even your brand – […]

There is a never-ending stream of news stories documenting bribery and corruption cases around the world. Some of those cases rose to the top of the headlines in 2019. All of the stories help illustrate the need for organisations to have proper controls in place to prevent bribery and corruption. A certification such as ISO […]

ABAC® training held for 2019 International Anti-Corruption Day “Manage your business risks with confidence” was the tone for CRI Group’s ABAC® Center of Excellence anti-bribery anti-corruption training event held on International Anti-Corruption Day (Monday, 9 December) in Dubai. Hosted at Dubai Quality Group’s offices at Emarat Atrium Building, “Introductory Seminar on ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management [...]

On behalf of CRI Group and our ABAC® Center of Excellence, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season! Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to working with you in the years to come. Even with the world under partial lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been no shortage […]

Corruption weakens governments, fuels organised crime, stifles economic growth and discourages development. International corruption continues to undermine the progress of developing nations as rogue politicians, civic leaders and corporate representatives conduct “business as usual” to bypass bureaucratic red tape or circumvent competitive processes. But the world is taking notice and punishing those organisations accused of corruption […]

International Anti-Corruption Day is Monday, 9 December 2019. The campaign was started as a joint venture between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and now organisations around the world are united against corruption for this day every year. United Against Corruption focuses on corruption as […]

Political and governmental unrest can affect a region’s economy and the integrity of business transactions. The current state of the Middle East exemplifies this phenomenon. While governments in the region are making efforts to curb corruption, political instability and regime changes often undermine these measures. Bad actors understand how to take advantage of such vulnerabilities, […]

CRI Group offers some basic steps any organisation can take immediately to lessen their vulnerability to fraud from both inside and out. These measures should be followed year-round – but Fraud Week provides a great opportunity to get started. The following are 8 steps to prevent fraud: 1. Take a Proactive Approach to Fraud Prevention. […]

How to fight bribery and corruption? Bribery and corruption are a dent on the image of any company. It is an unwanted and unsightly reflection that can be not only be mitigated but prevented in the organisation. The negative representation might result in a loss of trust among customers, affiliates and business patrons. In addition, […]

Bribery and corruption are a form of abuse to the progress of the economy. It has far-reaching consequences that hinder the development of individuals, businesses and the nation. The impact of corruption and bribery go beyond discernment and can lead to financial losses, withdrawal of investors, dissuasion of shareholders, perpetuation of fraud, reputational damages, business […]

These are challenging and complex times. COVID-19 is forcing organisations to adapt quickly and change their business model in the process. In an era of compliance, with many regulations and regional “interpretations”, leaders and organisations need to be careful about how they conduct business, who conducts business in their name and with whom. This demands […]

By Aneta Nastaj, Training Manager at ABAC® CoE

Hiring new employees is an essential part of operating, and growing, a successful business. It also presents an inherent risk to any organisation. According to popular employment site CareerBuilder.com, “58% of hiring managers said they’ve caught a lie on a resume; one-third (33% of these employers have seen an increase in resume embellishments post-recession.” Background screening Here’s […]

We recently launched a FREE publication "South Asia grapples with anti-bribery compliance", which overviews anti-bribery, anti-corruption and ISO 37001 solutions in Malaysia and entire in South Asia. South Asia has a troubled record when it comes to preventing bribery and corruption, as well as enforcing compliance. Recent cases and statistics show that the problem persists in most [...]

There is a new standard for preventing bribery in business: ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System standard was created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to help companies worldwide increase and measure their efforts against bribery and corruption. This important new standard mirrors numerous steps contained in: The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Good Practice Guidance on [...]

Apex Shipping Services LLC, based in Dubai (UAE), has successfully demonstrated compliance with ISO 37001 Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) requirements and attained ABAC Certification from CRI Group (Corporate Research and Investigations Limited). Kanwal Zafar, Managing Director at ABAC Center of Excellence, announced the certification in a statement. “It is our honour to recognise Apex and […]

The world is changing. Borders are opening up. Workforces are crossing international boundaries. Barriers to global competition are lifting and technology is simplifying communication and allowing virtually anyone to enter the global job market. The only constant that remains in today’s hiring equation is people. Résumé fraud is a widespread problem for employers in every […]

Forensic accountants are experts with a unique set of training and skills. “Forensic” means suitable for use in court, and forensic accounting is a speciality practice area of accounting that deals with engagements and investigations where disputes or litigation are anticipated. For those reasons, the training and expertise demonstrated by these professionals make them very […]

On the whole, South Asia has a troubled record when it comes to preventing bribery and corruption, and enforcing compliance. Recent cases and statistics show that the problem persists in most countries in the region. Both government officials and private sector business leaders are struggling to adopt policies, control methods and best practices to help [...]

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) public sector corruption siphons $1.5 trillion to $2 trillion annually from the global economy in bribes and costs far more in stunted economic growth, lost tax revenues and sustained poverty. The fact is, bribery and corruption can affect any organisation, of any size, in any industry and location. […]

CRI Group and ABAC Center of Excellence CEO Mr. Zafar Anjum was a speaker at last week’s ABAC at MACC 2019 Seminar Benchmark on Governance, Integrity & Anti-Corruption. Mr. Anjum presented “Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS 37001) Case Study and Implementation – UK Experience.” He provided an overview of ABMS 37001 Accreditation & Certification as an […]

Bribery and corruption are worldwide problems with serious consequences for organisations of any size, industry or region. To help combat this threat, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) issued the ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) standard. This standard helps businesses, nonprofits and governmental agencies to reduce their risk of bribery and corruption, How? By [...]

Corruption: a real Threat to Organisations Worldwide For ages, systematic bribery was tolerated in various countries and industries as a “necessary part of getting business done or circumventing bureaucratic red tape.” The times are changing, however. Societies and their governments have recognised that bribery and corruption vastly affect economic growth, undermine trust and discourage investment.  […]

Award-winning Information Technology Services company ISS Middle East FZC (IntelliSoft) has successfully demonstrated compliance with ISO 37001 requirements and attained ABAC Certification in ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) for services such as SAP Professional, Technology, Infra services & solutions (Data Management, Application development, Legacy Modernisation Cloud service, Analytics & Mobility), Staffing, Recruitment and Outsourcing […]

It’s a well-known World Bank statistic, but one that bears continual repeating: More than US$1.5 trillion – or 2% of world gross domestic product – is paid in bribes each and every year, contributing to the demise of governments, inadequate social services, inferior infrastructure, low-quality goods and services, and a general strain on public and […]

Uncertainty around Brexit continues, and the possibility of a no-deal means it is still challenging to predict what will happen when the UK leaves the EU. The Government is yet to release official guidance on what letting agents and Landlords will need to do, should a no-deal Brexit be the outcome of the process. The [...]

In December 2017, the world’s largest builder of offshore rigs agreed to pay $422 million in penalties after entering a guilty plea for bribery charges connected with the Petroleo Brasileiro (Petrobras) scandal. Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd. made illicit payments to both Petrobras officials and government representatives for more than a decade, between 2001 and […]

Pharma and Healthcare Companies can Benefit from ISO 37001 When global pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline found itself in the Chinese government’s crosshairs for an alleged large-scale bribery scandal, there was perhaps little doubt that the consequences would be large-scale, as well. GSK was accused of systematically paying bribes and “gratuities” to doctors and hospitals in return […]

Continuous improvement is another significant concept to understand for ISO 31000. Without a company culture strongly aligned with principles of continuous improvement, organisations will struggle to implement, let alone maintain successful risk management programs. This can be challenging in practice, as cultivating a risk management attitude within a company involves aligning risk initiatives with existing company values, […]

There are inherent risks in the hiring process, including deception by individuals seeking to gain an advantage over other candidates. Thorough pre- and post-employment background checks are critical in mitigating these risk factors, helping any organisation stay better protected from fraudulent candidates or unqualified employees. The advantages of using an expert third-party service to conduct […]

Hiring new employees is an essential part of operating, and growing, a successful business. It is also a process that presents an inherent risk to any organisation. Fraud and other criminal acts are often committed by company insiders, the very people that are trusted to work for the business’s best interests. While most employees might […]

Hiring more people within a company no matter the size can be a lot of effort, waste a lot of time and cost a lot of money so it is important to do it right, which means reference checking. As a large company, it is often the case that there will be an in-house HR team […]

As the international outcry on bribery and corruption practices continues to tighten its grip around rogue players in the private and public business sectors, global organisations continue to ramp up their efforts to develop effective frameworks to prevent, detect and report bribery and corruption. And by fortifying their anti-bribery management systems, such organisations are further helping […]

Most organisations manage some of their risks via an insurance policy and risk retention. However, this is a reactive strategy when it comes to risk. If you are one of these organisations, then you are missing the riskiest part of the equation: people risk. People risk IS… having the wrong people in the right positions; […]

Talent acquisition in the hiring process requires a great deal of investment in both time and effort for the hiring manager and would involve even greater repercussions if the chosen candidate turns out to be a bad hire. Due to the ever-growing competitive nature of job seeking, it is becoming increasingly likely that a prospective […]

Procurement risks: your lack of due diligence can lead harm Procurement is one of the most critical areas of any organisation, large or small. Procurement officers secure the materials and goods that a business needs in order to be productive and successful, and they do so while trying to ensure the best possible price, quality, [...]

By Zafar Anjum, MSc, MS, CFE, CII, MICA, Int. Dip. (Fin. Crime) at CRI Group Chief Executive Officer

Anti-bribery and anti-corruption efforts are a huge priority in the South Asia Region, with many governments trying to strengthen laws and enhance enforcement in both their private and public sectors. As recent high-profile corruption cases in the region have demonstrated, today’s regulators are seeing the issue as a societal problem as much as a legal […]

CRI Group is once again a proud supporter of International Fraud Awareness Week, Nov. 11-17, 2018. This global movement aims to minimise the impact of fraud by promoting anti-fraud awareness and education. Companies lose an estimated 5% of their revenue annually due to fraud (ACFE Report to the Nations, 2018) and additional training, prevention programs […]

In today’s connected business world, there are very few secrets. United Airlines, for example, recently learned the hard way that one ugly incident can go viral and spread around the world in a matter of minutes – not hours, days or weeks. protect company reputation United initially faced criticism over the rough treatment of a passenger being […]

We at the CRI Group believe that businesses that are being run free of corruption accomplish their vision and mission sooner and easier. They bring good to the world more effectively than others. When a business has a clearly set vision and a detailed plan on how to reach it, all it takes to accomplish […]

How to Protect Your Business from Money Laundering Activities?  Today, having anti-money laundering processes in place is more than a matter of smart business. In most jurisdictions, it is also a legal necessity. Organisations large and small are at risk of falling prey to unscrupulous business dealings and other threats posed by seemingly legitimate business […]

Background checks don’t tend make international news. They are the low-key diligent step in most well-managed recruitment processes, to provide employers comfort that the person they are hiring is everything they seem – and nothing more. That’s why the background checking of Brett Kavanaugh, a nominee to the US Supreme Court, should be about the […]

In today’s business environment, fraudulent practices and manipulating the trust of others is so commonplace that people do it very often and with confidence. Unfortunately, this is also true when it comes to employment, as some potential candidates will present fake and bogus background certificates to try to gain an edge in the hiring process. […]

Money laundering should be near the top of the list of any business owner’s concerns. Anti-money laundering legislation and regulations are strict and increasingly enforced, and remaining in compliance through implementing proper prevention controls is a must. Countless businesses large and small – from corporations to third-party contractors – have learned this lesson the hard […]

ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System Certification is critical for organisations in the public, private and non-profit sectors. After all, consider the benefits: Certification adds a distinct level of credibility to the organisation’s management systems, and ensures that the organisation is implementing a viable anti-bribery management program utilising widely accepted controls and systems. It provides assurance […]

Thank you for attending the ABAC Summit Malaysia last Tuesday! We are proud to have brought such an amazing group of distinguished speakers and respected delegates together to address the bribery and corruption issues worldwide. We are extremely thankful to all our speakers for making this #ABACSummit2018 a successful one! Dr KM Loi, Cristian Nicoara, Md […]

In one case, an enforcement agent for a Malaysian government department pleaded guilty for receiving a bribe from a business owner. In another, a U.S. district attorney from Philadelphia was accused of taking cash in return for helping people with their legal cases. He was accused of 28 counts of bribery, and in the end […]

The business world is often transitional, and the landscape changes as entities grow or industries change – and the players involved have to change with it. Mergers and acquisitions are examples of these “transitional times,” and they are also among the most critical times to conduct proper and thorough due diligence. There are inherent risks […]

Once upon a time, the idea of business ethics was more of an abstract or philosophical notion that seemed more suited for discussion in a university lecture or at a business conference. Today, however, organisations of all sizes and industries must have concrete ways of addressing ethics and compliance issues as a principal component of [...]

One of the most important aspects of any organisation is its culture. How do employees relate to one another? Is it a positive and enriching place to work? Do employees trust their colleagues, and look forward to working with them? ISO 37001:2016 Certification Unfortunately, an organisation that lacks proper controls against fraud, bribery and corruption and […]

An extra layer of security As a global investigative firm with a network of 76 agents worldwide, CRI Group has the resources and expertise needed to implement thorough and comprehensive pre- and post-employment screening. As part of our EmploySmart program, we have conducted more than 187,000 individual background checks, serving top companies of many industry […]

Bribery and corruption are serious concerns to businesses, government agencies and non-profit organisations. In fact, the risk of being associated with the negative impacts of this type of fraud extends to third party partners and influences present and future businesses relationships. In this business climate, consider the tremendous advantage your organisation will enjoy if it […]

Economic crime (also known as financial crime) principal catalysts is monetary gain. However economic crime not only has a devasting effect on individuals and communities but when associated with organised crime and terrorist financing it threatens laws, democratic processes and fundamental human freedoms, impoverishing states and distorting free trade and competition.  Not a victimless crime […]

CRI Group wishes to congratulate Fraud Advisory Panel on the 20th anniversary. It was a pleasure to attend the event and celebrate this great occasion of FAP fighting fraud for 20 years. It has been a great honor to be the member of the panel. Looking forward to continuing working together in the future! Connect with […]

Meet us at the 2018 SHRM Annual Conference & Exhibition in Chicago, to demonstrate a commitment to your professional development and learning about tools and resources you need to best serve your organisation’s HR needs. One of those critical needs is helping your organisation prevent fraud. Human resources managers and specialists are at the front […]

ABAC Certification (Corporate Research and Investigations Limited) Granted First Ever BS ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Accreditation by EIAC Emirates International Accreditation Centre (previously known as Dubai Accreditation Centre (DAC)) officially recognises global firm’s ability to help ensure that organisations bring management systems into compliance and prevent bribery Corporate Research and Investigations Limited, herein referred to as […]

Gathering intelligence isn’t just the stuff of spy movies. It’s also an important part of the business world – and when conducted legally, ethically and effectively, it is a critical tool for any organisation seeking to be successful in their industry or field. Business investigations are about more than just identifying risk factors or weaknesses. […]

In business, having the critical information you need can mean the difference between success and failure. When it comes to investigative research, trained experts can uncover facts that help you make the right decisions; and, conversely, save your organisation from making costly mistakes. CRI Group has trained investigators positioned around the world who can help provide […]

There is the growing misconception surrounding the need for appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) under GDPR which is effective on 25th May 2018. The role of DPO is critical for correct implementation of the newly drafted regulation. Relating to this, the organisation needs to ask itself four main questions before appointing a DPO which […]

While many countries and their leaders are making strides against fraud and corruption, some national governments can’t seem to get out of their own way. Such appears to be the case right now in Mexico, where the Mexican government is accused of blocking its own anti-corruption initiatives that were launched earlier this year. According to […]

The time is quickly coming to an end when companies could expect to be successful in business without having a strong emphasis on compliance and ethics. The latest evidence of that is the fact that in Brazil, which has been stricken with high-profile fraud scandals in recent years, a new rule requires any companies doing […]

Ever since its conception, GDPR has caused a strong stir in the legal and compliance world. The new law builds on the previous data protection legislation but at the same time provides more resilient protections for consumers, and more privacy considerations for organisations involved in the processing of personal data. The new EU General Data […]

2017 International Fraud Awareness Week (also called “Fraud Week”) kicked off on Sunday and is in full swing. CRI Group is a proud supporter of this important initiative every year, and we encourage business leaders to take this time to consider all of their fraud prevention measures, including anti-fraud training for employees. Does your organisation have a training […]

Last Thursday, 26 October, the region’s leading anti-fraud professionals gathered in Karachi, Pakistan, for CRI Group’s Pakistan’s 1st ever Anti-Bribery Summit. CRI Group took the initiative to organise the first Anti-Bribery Summit in Pakistan with the goal to redefine the anti-bribery culture within organisations in the country. The Anti-Bribery Summit couldn’t have come at a […]

Managing risk is a critical part of the success of any organisation. That’s why ISO (International Organization for Standardization) developed the 31000 Risk Management Standard. Issued in 2009, the standard helps address operational continuity, and also confidence and reassurance in your organisation’s economic resilience, professional reputation and environmental and safety outcomes. Best of all, ISO 31000 […]

As Hurricane Harvey devastates the Texas coast and the U.S. megacity of Houston, however its ripple effects go beyond as investigators will be on high alert for another type of threat: fraud. Disaster fraud is nothing new. Law enforcement, prosecutors and other legal authorities in eight different countries are still dealing with cases from 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, which devastated […]

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is preparing to pay roughly $300 million to resolve a long-running U.S. bribery investigation into allegations of bribery by its employees. The deal, which the people said was being finalised and still could change, would amount to a significant concession by the U.S. government. The Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission had […]

In just over a year, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will come into force in Europe. This sea change in data privacy is aimed at improving protections for individuals within the European Union, providing them with more control over how their personal data is used. It will also clarify and standardise from a legal […]

Ideally, every business should have a clearly defined fraud prevention strategy that incorporates all of the elements contained in the diagram show, starting with a writte fraud policy. Policy: Having protocols and policies in place for dealing with fraud will help you establish a good grounding for identifying it. Prevent and detect: In order to […]

Ethics hotlines are growing in popularity. In 2017 the South Africa Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba announced over 3,000 officials were found guilty of misconduct related to cases reported via the National Anti-Corruption Hotline (NACH). “The closure rate underscores a commitment by government departments to investigate allegations of corruption as reported through the NACH.” Ethics and [...]

From eMarketer The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was put in place to standardise existing laws that call for transparency in how companies collect and store personal data about EU citizens. eMarketer’s Sean Creamer spoke with Scott Meyer, CEO and co-founder of Evidon, and Todd Ruback, the compliance services company’s chief privacy officer […]

In 2017 the major European ABB conglomerate admitted that an employee took advantage of serious management failings to disappear with $103 million of the firm’s cash. According to CNN business, ABB admitted that its managers had failed to maintain sufficient segregation of duties in the treasury unit of its subsidiary in South Korea, and did not […]

From CBS News Beware of bogus IRS agents, fake offers of tech support – in other words, impostors. They’ve overtaken identity thieves to become the nation’s top fraudsters, according to the latest consumer complaint data. The Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel project, which tallies up the number and type of consumer complaints received each year, reported […]

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 our employees and co-workers, and we keep our focus on succeeding as a team and accomplishing our goals for the business. Nobody wants […]

Managing risk effectively is essential to ensure businesses succeed and thrive in an environment of constant uncertainty. ISO 31000 aims to simplify risk management into a set of clearly understandable and actionable guidelines, that should be straightforward to implement, regardless of the size, nature, or location of a business. However without leadership, your risk management strategy […]

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) defines a management system as a set of procedures an organisation needs to follow in order to meet its objectives. A management system standard provides a model to follow when setting up and operating a management system. Some of the top-level benefits of a successful management system include: enhanced use of resources improved risk [...]

Survey: Ensuring compliance, quality hires drives need for background checks A recent CRI Group survey of business leaders finds that enhanced regulatory compliance, ensuring quality hires and maintaining workplace safety and security were considered the top benefits of conducting background checks. Key considerations for engaging a background screening service include cost, turnaround time and compliance […]

8ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System Certification is critical for organisations in the public, private and non-profit sectors. It provides an important layer against threats of bribery, corruption, fraud and other security concerns. It also sets an organisation apart from its peers, as models for ethical behaviour and compliance. In a recent blog, we discussed the first [...]