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Read MoreSupply 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 Management, Employee Background Screening, Business Intelligence, TPRM, Due Diligence, Compliance 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.
Personal Due Diligence, Tips You Need to Know
In the business world, due diligence refers to the investigation and steps were 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 arising from the FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) and the UKBA (U.K. Bribery Act), to make informed decisions and pursue takeovers or mergers with more confidence.
Due diligence is vital to prevent many types of fraud, and while professional services can be used in some cases, it is also up to the consumer to do their due diligence. Due diligence is vital to prevent many types of fraud. While in some cases, it is also up to the consumer to do their own personal due diligence. Due diligence sounds complicated, but it is merely the process of doing your homework before you make a significant commitment.
Personal Due Diligence In Everyday Transactions
Most of us practice personal due diligence even though we may not think of it that way (i.e. research on the internet before making a purchase or deciding what restaurant to go to). We are doing our “due diligence” to get the best deal in this process. The level of proper due diligence should be proportionate to the level of commitment involved and your specific status. So when buying a house, the due diligence ought to be more extensive (i.e. a family with children may want to check out the rating of the schools in the area). Another personal area to conduct due diligence involves a new job offer (i.e., the organisation known to treat its employees well). These areas involve a significant amount of due diligence on your part before accepting a new position at a new company.
Due Diligence Makes Trust Possible
The Government is under increased pressure to give clear guidance on post-Brexit Right to Work and Right to Rent checks. In the U.K., the lack of clarity from the Government has already caused problems. Many landlords are averse to letting their properties to non-UK nationals if they breach the Right to Rent rules post-Brexit. Whether renting a property, having home renovations done, buying insurance, getting a mortgage, or even entering a new romantic relationship, you can use due diligence to protect yourself. Due diligence can prevent potential fraud and some other types of scams.
The following are tips on how to avoid fraud:
- Know who you are dealing with, ask questions and verify the information;
- Check with the governing body for licensing and insurance requirements;
- Scammers pressure you to act immediately. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand;
- Don’t sign anything for large amounts of money without having it reviewed by your lawyer;
- Scammers say there’s a problem or a prize. Do not give out your personal information without verifying who is getting it;
- Be cautious if you are asked to make up-front payments;
- Get company information, including name and address and ensure that a written contract backs all verbal promises;
- Have a contract in place for things like construction work;
- Never give an unsolicited caller access to your computer;
- Do not give out a credit card or online account details over the phone unless you made the call and the number you are calling came from a trusted source;
- Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way. Never wire money unless you’re confident that you’re sending it to someone you know;
- Be suspicious of any calls from supposedly distressed relatives who don’t give their names. After hanging up, try calling the family member with the phone numbers you have to see if they need help;
- Scammers pretend to be from an organisation you know. Be suspicious of any calls from a supposed government agency or other businesses demanding payments; and
- Landlords should check references (in some cases, a police criminal record check), credit reports, and employment information of potential tenants.
Online Fraud is on the rise
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 praised the selfless sacrifice of doctors, nurses, first responders and others putting themselves in harm’s way to help treat and limit the spread of the disease. Unfortunately, a crisis can also bring out the worst in some people; fraudsters prey on fear and confusion.
The research shows that online fraud is on the increase too. Online retailer sectors saw rising transaction volumes in March 2020 compared to the previous year, with 97% in Home products and furnishings, 136% in DIY products, 163% in garden essentials, and 26.6% in electronics. Fraudsters are using the surge in online activity to target unsuspecting consumers.
Online Due Diligence Tips:
- Change online passwords regularly and make them secure (don’t use standard information about yourself);
- Don’t post personal info such as date of birth or mailing address on social media sites;
- Have the most current firewall and anti-virus software on your computer;
- Don’t send financial or any other type of personal information by email or text;
- When purchasing online, make sure the site is secure. It should begin with HTTPS;
- Don’t open links that appear in an email asking you to start a financial transaction. Go directly to the organisation’s website;
- Don’t download software programs or apps from an unsecured source; and
- Don’t use unsecured wifi (such as in a coffee shop) if your device has personal information on it.
- Change online passwords regularly and make them secure (don’t use standard information about yourself);
- Don’t post personal info such as date of birth, mailing address, or SIN on social media sites;
- Have the most current anti-virus software and firewall on your computer;
- Don’t send financial information by email or text;
- When purchasing online, make sure the site is secure. It should begin with HTTPS;
- Don’t open links that appear in an email asking you to start a financial transaction. Go directly to the organisation’s website;
- Don’t download apps or software programs from an unsecured source; and
- Don’t use unsecured WIFI (such as in a coffee shop) if your device has personal information (such as your phone contacts, apple id, banking records, residence or employment information).
DueDiligence360™
Don’t fall prey to unscrupulous business dealings and outside threats. At CRI Group™, we specialise in Integrity Due Diligence, working as trusted partners to businesses 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.
Our DueDiligence360™ expose vulnerabilities and threats that can cause serious damage to your organisation and can significantly reduce business. The world’s largest corporations trust CRI Group™ and consultancies – outsource your due diligence to an experienced provider, and you will only ever have to look forward, never back.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DUE DILIGENCE 360
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 Management, Employee Background Screening, Business Intelligence, Due Diligence, Compliance 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 B.S. 102000:2013 and B.S. 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SOLUTIONS
Speak Up, Report Illegal, Unethical or Improper Behavior
Ethics and Compliance Hotline is an anonymous reporting mechanism that facilitates reporting of possible illegal, unethical, or improper conduct when the normal communication channels have proven ineffective or are impractical under the circumstances. At CRI Group™, we are committed to having an open dialogue on ethical dilemmas regardless. We want to introduce a new Ethics & Compliance Hotline. This hotline is available to all employees and clients, contractors, vendors, and others in a business relationship with CRI Group™ and our sister brand ABAC Group™.
If you find yourself in an ethical dilemma or suspect inappropriate or illegal conduct, and you feel uncomfortable reporting through normal channels of communication, or wish to raise the issue anonymously, use CRI Group™’s Compliance Hotline in below mentioned ways or provide us with your complaint online on the form below. The Compliance Hotline is a secure and confidential reporting channel managed by an independent provider. When reporting a concern in good faith, you will be protected by CRI Group™’s Non-Retaliation Policy.
What Can You Report?
Feel free to report any known or suspected noncompliant behavior or violations with any regulatory mandates and/or local policies, including but not limited to:
- Ethical standards Violations
- Violation of laws and Company Policy and internal control
- Risk and Safety
- Theft, embezzlement or misappropriate of assets and fraud
- Bribery and corruption
- Employee Rights, Employee Relation, Work Environment
- Privacy laws or security of personal information
- Discrimination
- The dispute related to Supervisor, H.R. and other Departments
- Physical and Verbal Harassment on Workplace
- Issues related to job responsibilities
- The Report related to a suspicious activity being a witness
- Unfair dismissals
Our Compliance Hotline is accessible by both phone and online. If you make a report directly by telephone, you will speak with the Compliance Department directly. If you submit a report online, the system will guide you through the reporting process, and a PIN generated automatically once you complete the Report.
50th UAE National Day 2021
50th UAE National Day 2021
50th UAE National Day 2021. Today is the UAE’s National Day, which coincides with the country’s Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years since the founding of the Emirates, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate. This UAE National Day reflects the dreams, development and dynamism of the last 50 years for those who call this nation home. The UAE wasn’t always a prosperous, cosmopolitan country; the country had humble beginnings. The UAE’s rich history is rooted in trade. The Emirates’ location between Europe and the Far East attracted merchants from India and China and was prized by Europeans, particularly the Portuguese, Dutch and British.
Those working from Sunday to Thursday get four days off to celebrate National Day and Commemoration Day from Wednesday, December 1 to Saturday, December 4, giving both private and public sectors a much-needed four-day weekend. Read more about the public holiday here. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable journey of the UAE and now it’s time to experience the festivities together as we honour the Year of the 50th. across Dubai.
Who are Corporate Research and Investigations Limited (CRI Group™)?
Ever since 1990, Corporate Research and Investigations Limited (CRI Group™) has committed itself to safeguard organisations from fraud, bribery and corruption. Based in London, United Kingdom, CRI™ is an international organisation with specialists and resources situated in key, provincial marketplaces throughout the Asia Pacific, South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, North and South America and aim to shield organisations from detriment by determining the lawful compliance, financial feasibility, and integrity measures of external partners, suppliers and consumers pursuing to associate themselves with your brand. They are acknowledged as a prominent Compliance and Risk Management organisation accredited and interconnected in the objectives of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) and Qatar Financial Center (QFC).
With a profession spanning over 30-years in the disciplines of fraud prevention, defensive integrity, security and compliance, CRI® Group’s CEO Mr Zafar Anjum is a highly revered authority in his line of work. As a dependable influence in the field of fraud deterrence and protections together with commercial clients, management organisations and trade units, Mr Anjum is renowned for producing secure and reliable networks throughout the dynamic, challenging worldwide markets. In conjunction with a remarkable educational experience coupled with his trade proficiency, Mr Zafar Anjum is continually the first accredited global investigator on the scene when multi-national EMEA corporations pursue to eliminate compliance or security breaches.
2016 found the organisation instituting the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Center of Excellence – an autonomous certification body that aims to assist organisations in abating core risks as well as peripheral ones through the delivery of a comprehensive group of Anti-Bribery, Compliance and Risk Management programs.
Why CRI™?
CRI Group’s extensive efforts and reliable record in this field of work heavily align with what The UAE Innovation awards stand for – the aim to assist organisations across various sectors in strengthening their vetting capabilities in a manner that demonstrates sustainability in and of the public interest at large while maintaining legalities and development within the internal corporate structure is one to advance innovation in the industry for certain. In a sector that is accelerating the congealment of innovative proficiencies across a countless sum of industries comprising of automotive, aviation, oil, gas & energy, IT & telecommunications, property and many more industries, the services that CRI Group™ have to offer paired with a constructive influence on the society adjacent to it, a significant increase in the development of innovative systems is certainly to be anticipated.
GDPR vs. UK-GDPR; the Laws Post Brexit
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a regulation in EU law that was implemented on the 25th of May 2018 and concentrates on data protection and confidentiality in the European Union and the European Economic Area; alongside this, the GDPR is also used to address the transmission of personal data outside the EU and EEA areas. The EU Commission announced on 28 June 2021 that adequacy judgments for the UK have been passed, so what does that mean for the GDPR rules?
The Brexit transition phase concluded on the 31st of December 2020 and as a component of the new trade agreement, the EU has come to an agreement to postpone the transmission limitations for at least four months, which can then be stretched out to six months (recognised as the bridge). The European Commission published its draft decisions on the 19th of February 2021 regarding the UK’s adequacy under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR) and Law Enforcement Directive (LED). In both cases, the European Commission has found the UK to be adequate which implies that much of the data can resume the stream from the EU and the EEA devoid of the need for supplementary precautions. Nevertheless, it is vital to take note of the fundamental reality that the adequacy decisions do not cover data conveyed to the UK for the principles of immigration control, or where the UK immigration immunity is appropriate. For this nature of data, distinct regulations are employed, and the EEA dispatcher wants to set other transfer safeguards in place. September 2021 saw WhatsApp being handed the second highest fine under EU GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) rules and the biggest fine ever from the Irish Data Protection Commission due to their lack of understanding towards the new GDPR laws – had they done their due diligence, they may have been able to avert such a hefty fine. Our Due diligence 360° services provide the specialised intelligence needed by global financial institutions and multinational corporations to guarantee complete compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and legislations.
Find out more about compliance below or download our free brochure.
FIND OUT OUR SOLUTIONS or DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE
The draft decisions will at this point be deemed by the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) and a committee of the 27 EU Member Governments. If the committee accepts the draft decisions, then the European Commission can formally adopt them as legal adequacy decisions. If adequacy decisions are not implemented at the end of the bridge and allocations from the European Economic Area (EEA) to the UK will require compliance with EU GDPR transfer constraints.
What is the UK-GDPR?
The United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK-GDPR) is the UK’s national data privacy law that is the proxy for the EU’s GDPR after Brexit; it is fundamentally the equivalent to the EU’s GDPR but altered to accommodate national regions of regulation. The UK-GDPR will regulate personal data and demand the same legal grounds for managing personal data.
The GDPR is indeed still retained in domestic law as the UK GDPR, although the UK has the freedom to maintain the framework under evaluation. The ‘UK GDPR’ as it’s known as, rests adjacent to a revised edition of the DPA 2018. It is also essential to note that the fundamental ethics, constitutional rights, and responsibilities remain as they were but that there are connotations for the regulations on transmissions of individual data between the UK and the EEA.
The UK GDPR also pertains to regulators and processors established out of the UK if their managing pursuits correlate to:
- presenting commodities or services to persons in the UK; or
- supervising the conduct of persons taking place in the UK.
Similarly, there are also outcomes for UK regulators who have an institution in the EEA, have consumers in the EEA, or observe individuals in the EEA. The EU GDPR still pertains to this handling as data can still flow freely from the EEA because the EU have adopted adequacy decisions about the UK, but the European data protection mandates has altered the way you can interact. CRI® Group’s own exclusive, expert-developed 3PRM™ services help you proactively mitigate risks from third-party affiliations, protecting your organisation from liability, brand damage, and harm to the business. Whether your organisation has a large, well-established third-party program, is in the early stages of development, or is anywhere in between, the 3PRM™ solution can improve the health of your program and future-proof your entire business in many forms.
Find out more about 3PRM™ below or download our free brochure.
FIND OUT OUR Third-Party Management Solution or DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE
Which rules apply?
Whilst the adequacy judgments stay in order, the UK GDPR is still valid and is expected to remain so until the 27th of June 2025. The EU Commission will be supervising advancements in the UK on a constant basis to guarantee that the UK will continue to deliver a comparable degree of data protection. The Commission is still able to revise, postpone, or rescind the decisions if concerns cannot be settled. EU data subjects or an EU data protection authority can also instigate a lawful dispute regarding the decisions in which the Court of Justice of the European union would then have to determine whether the UK did essentially deliver comparable security.
In the absenteeism of an EU GDPR adequacy decision, the Frozen GDPR would be valid to subjective data of the basis of if:
- it was administered in the UK under the EU GDPR before 01 January 2021; or
- it’s being administered in the UK on the basis of the Withdrawal Agreement
Conversely, the UK-GDPR does increase on -and diverge from- the EU GDPR in noteworthy approaches that will make modifications to the legal environment of data protection in the UK.
UK-GDPR expands and changes the European GDPR
The areas increased on by the UK-GDPR are:
- National security
- Intelligence services
- Immigration
These regions, are per definition, are outside the scope of the European GDPR the three of them are deemed to be extra-national regulation from the EU devoid of powers to govern affairs of national confidence in constituent nations. Nevertheless, the UK-GDPR sets out specific concessions by which the customary welfare of personal data can be circumvented, e.g., when in matters of national security or in matters of immigration. It also applies the same requirements for collection and processing of personal data to the intelligence services. A further significant change is that the Information Commissioner, who was the leading data protection authority in the UK today, became the primary director, monitor and enforcer of the UK-GDPR.
Are you post-Brexit GDPR compliant?
The UK-GDR would now entail your organisation’s site or application to request for the user’s approval prior to accumulating and managing data via cookies. It involves that your organisation not amassing more data than is truly mandatory and to also make it as straightforward for your users to rescind authority to the application of data as it is to give it. Transparency is key in the UK-GDPR and requires clarification of how long data is stored and how you will be processing users’ personal data.
Let’s Talk!
It’s always great to have a helping hand when it comes to compliance and risk management – especially with all the new changes expected to take place ahead of securing the integrity and morality across corporate culture. Take a proactive stance with the highest level of expertise as a part of your essential corporate strategy. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of services to help your organisation stay protected.
The Consequences of Neglecting Background Screening
Neglecting Background Screening
Are you neglecting background screening? What consequences may affect your organisation when you ignore this process when hiring? What is it about Background Screening? Statistics have revealed to us that a substantial quantity of resumes that are presented to HR during the recruitment process comprised fabricated material; shortlisting is a rigorous assortment procedure intended to put your applicant on trial, but if you are interviewing an individual who has fabricated much of their resume, how can you make a good judge of character? Put, executing a pre-employment check is the best way to combat this issue.
Background screening is vital to organisations of all types and industries as it can assist in authenticating your employees’ record of accomplishment and help avoid a bad hire. Before COVID-19, it was found that an estimate of 85% of organisations testified to conducting background screening of some type. On the same note, a vast 92 per cent stated that they trust their employees with confidential data but without the assistance of a background screening measure. Find out other ways COVID has impacted the hiring process, or download our background screening brochure.
Below, CRI Group™ has compiled a list of 5 risks you are running into when failing to conduct a background screening check before employment.
1. Your prospective member of staff could be a felon
Hiring a candidate with a criminal record could taint your company’s reputation, generate a highly volatile atmosphere in your office, and harm other staff members. An employer has the right to investigate an applicants’ criminal past; however, the only way to genuinely acquire the data surrounding an applicant’s criminal past when they intend on masking the evidence is through a criminal background check.
A professional background verification service is a must to communicate with the local authorities to acquire legitimate illegal data and make a well-informed decision for the benefit of your organisation.
2. The odds of employing an unqualified candidate devoid of background screening is 1 out of 6
1 out of every 6 candidates carry inflated or falsified documents to persuade you into offering them the position – and this can be accredited to the rise of credential mills and fake corporations; applicants commonly use counterfeit degrees and false employment records to get hired, and it takes more than just a phone call to find out the reality.
Background service providers use various procedures to obtain legitimate data, including private trips to the university/corporations where applicants allege to have graduated from or worked. Applicants with falsified resumes are not simply deficient in both integrity and honesty – in most cases, they are also not competent enough to fit your job description. A straightforward background verification uncovers this deception and prevents you from hiring an unqualified candidate.
3. Endangering the welfare of other members of the task force
In correspondence to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA),9 % of approximately 22.4 million unlawful drug users are employed either full time or part-time. A substance abuser, aside from grappling with efficiency, will also inhibit the performance of their co-worker with their improper demeanour.
Employees with a record of drug abuse and misconduct are also deemed to be exceedingly inconsistent and present themselves as a danger to their co-workers; workplace violence and delinquency can be attributed to disregarding employee drug tests and criminal checks – checks that avert such calamities making your office peaceful and an improved place to work.
4. Increased abrasion can also be attributed to improper background screening
Pre-employment screening underlines the notion of quality over quantity. It makes sure that you hire the right candidate from a mass of applicants who applied for the position as employees with unsatisfactory credentials habitually find their way into your organisation through fabricated evidence. Hiring model candidates with an admirable mindset and relevant qualifications can mitigate employee turnover and enhance the general outcome of your organisation. However, the good news is that they never last for long, owing to their shortage of output and failure to handle the work delegated to them.
5. A candidate’s social media presence and global database can help nail down an accurate judge of character
Social media platforms in conjunction with international databases, for instance, criminal watch lists, credit archives, and public litigation archives, can expose your candidates’ positive and negative characteristics that may escape you during the interview and selection process. Abandoning these checks will hinder you as an employer from seeing your candidate’s best or worst side when picking among leading applicants who contend for a critical position. Employers who operate social media checks on their candidates have found it simpler to identify their candidates better, as social media is where the candidates are more apt to demonstrate their temperament and talents. The process for operating social media and archive checks can be burdensome, but rest assured that pre-employment screening providers are devoted to passing thorough checks on social media platforms and hundreds of databases to assist employers worldwide make critical hiring judgments.
The Verdict?
Background screening has achieved immense recognition throughout the world over the previous few years as it should do – its impact and the modern setting assist in diminishing the pressures that jeopardise every employer’s aim to enhance their personnel and work environment. Verification should be a compulsory component of an organisation’s onboarding procedure to alleviate all the risks we have discussed thus far. Notwithstanding the apparent advantages that background screening presents, it likewise confirms that your organisation hires the most excellent contenders who would promise continual triumph.
CRI™ is certified by British Standard Institute BSI for the scope of BS 7858:2019 screening of individuals working in a secure environment, Code of practice and BS 102000:2018 Code of practice for the provision of investigative services. The BSI is the only BS 7858 accredited background screening services provider in the UAE and the Middle East. Find out more about the BS 7858:2019 or download our BS7858:2019 free playbook.
The more you invest in sourcing morally correct corporate conduct, the more you can expect to be rewarded with a catalytic action to grow and expand your organisation.
Let’s Talk!
Don’t leave hiring to chance. Take a proactive stance with the highest level of background screening as a part of your essential corporate strategy. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of services to help your organisation stay protected.
Inadequate Due Diligence Hit Space-Transport SPAC Momentus $8 Million SEC Fine
Inadequate Due Diligence Hit SPAC Momentus $8 Million SEC Fine
Inadequate due diligence hit SPAC Momentus $8 million SEC fine after misleading investors. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has charged the Momentus particular purpose acquisition company (SPAC), its sponsor SRC-NI, the sponsor’s CEO Brian Kabot, the company, and founder Mikhail Kokorich – which involved in a $1.2 billion space-transport SPAC for defrauding investors and obscuring the CEO’s status as a US national security risk.
The Fraud Claimed
The SPAC, Stable Road Acquisition Corp, had sought to merge with Momentus, a private start-up, to take it public. Momentus’s key offering was a “microwave electro-thermal water plasma thruster,” a way of zapping water vapour to propel a spacecraft, intending to transport satellites into space.
But Momentus’s propulsion tech failed to show results, according to SEC filings. A test mission fell well short of the company’s benchmarks, and a former Momentus employee said that the test yielded “no data to suggest that that thruster would deliver an impulse of any commercial significance.”
According to the SEC’s settled order, Kokorich and Momentus, an early-stage space transportation company, repeatedly told investors that it had “successfully tested” its propulsion technology in space when, in fact, the company’s only in-space test had failed to achieve its primary mission objectives or demonstrate the technology’s commercial viability.
The order finds that Momentus and Kokorich also misrepresented the extent to which national security concerns involving Kokorich undermined Momentus’s ability to secure required governmental licenses essential to its operations.
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The Compliance Issue: Inadequate Due Diligence
The SEC’s settled order finds that Stable Road repeated Momentus’s misleading statements in public filings associated with the proposed merger and failed its due diligence obligations to investors.
According to the order, while Stable Road claimed to have conducted extensive due diligence of Momentus, it never reviewed Momentus’s in-space test results or received sufficient documents relevant to assessing the national security risks posed by Kokorich.
The order finds that Kabot participated in Stable Road’s inadequate due diligence and filed its inaccurate registration statements and proxy solicitations. The SEC’s complaint against Kokorich includes factual allegations that are consistent with the findings in the order.
“This case illustrates risks inherent to SPAC transactions, as those who stand to earn significant profits from a SPAC merger may conduct inadequate due diligence and mislead investors. Stable Road, a SPAC, and its merger target, Momentus, both misled the investing public. The fact that Momentus lied to Stable Road does not absolve Stable Road of its failure to undertake adequate due diligence to protect shareholders. Today’s actions will prevent the wrongdoers from benefitting at the expense of investors and help to better align the incentives of parties to a SPAC transaction with those of investors relying on truthful information to make investment decisions.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler
The Litigation Against Momentus, Stable Road, and Kabot
Associate Director of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement, Anita B, mentioned in her statement that Momentus’s former CEO alleged to have engaged in fraud by misrepresenting the viability of the company’s technology and his status as a national security threat, inducing shareholders to approve a merger in which he stood to obtain shares worth upwards of $200 million.
The SEC’s order finds that Momentus violated scienter-based antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws and caused sure of Stable Road’s violations. It also considers that Stable Road violated negligence-based antifraud provisions of the US federal securities laws as well as specific reporting and proxy solicitation provisions.
The order finds that Kabot violated provisions of the federal securities laws related to proxy solicitations. Kabot and SRC-NI caused Stable Road’s violation of Section 17(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933. Without admitting or denying the SEC’s findings, Momentus, Stable Road, Kabot, and SRC-NI consented to an order requiring them to cease from future violations. Momentus, Stable Road, and Kabot will pay civil penalties of $7 million, $1 million, and $40,000, respectively.
Inadequate due diligence hit SPAC Momentus $8 million SEC fine. Source: US Securities and Exchange Commission
What do you actually know about the integrity of the 3rd party and their way of doing business? Do they adhere to (inter)national regulations on anti-bribery and anti-corruption? Is it possible that there is a liability risk?
Due diligence on potential business partners when adding a new vendor or even hiring a new employee is vital to confirm the legitimacy and reduce the risks associated with such professional relationships. Global integrity DueDiligence360TM 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, suppliers, and employees. It will ensure that working with an, i.e. potential trade partner will ultimately achieve your organisation’s strategic and financial goals.
At CRI Group, we specialise in Integrity Due Diligence, working as trusted partners to businesses 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. CRI’s unique identity and vision evolved from our fundamental desire to support our clients and their candidates. Safeguard your business and its integrity with DueDiligence360™.
Our DueDiligence360™ expose vulnerabilities and threats that can cause serious damage to your organisation and can significantly reduce business. CRI Group is trusted by the world’s largest corporations and consultancies – outsource your due diligence to an experienced provider, and you will only ever have to look forward, never back.
CRI Group investigators employ a proven, multi-faceted research approach that involves a global array of databases, courts and public record searches, local contacts, industry and media resources, and in-depth web-based research. Our resources include:
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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.
DueDiligence360™ from CRI Group™
WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY KNOW ABOUT THE INTEGRITY OF THE PARTY & THEIR WAY OF DOING BUSINESS? DOES OR DID THIS PARTY ADHERE TO (INTER)NATIONAL REGULATIONS ON ANTI-CORRUPTION & ANTI-BRIBERY? IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THERE IS A LIABILITY RISK?
At CRI Group™ , we specialise in Integrity Due Diligence, working as trusted partners to businesses and institutions across the world. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates.
CRI’s unique identity and vision evolved from our fundamental desire to support our clients and their candidates. Safeguard your business and its integrity with DueDiligence360™.
Our DueDiligence360™ expose vulnerabilities and threats that can cause serious damage to your organisation and can significantly reduce business. CRI Group™ is trusted by the world’s largest corporations and consultancies – outsource your due diligence to an experienced provider and you will only ever have to look forward, never back. Clients who partner with us benefit from our:
Expertise
CRI Group™ has one of the largest, most experienced and best-trained integrity due diligence teams in the world.
Global scope
Our multi-lingual teams have conducted assignments on thousands of subjects in over 80 countries, and we’re committed to maintaining and constantly evolving our global network.
Flexibility
Our DueDiligence360TM service is flexible and can apply different levels of scrutiny to the subjects of our assignments, according to client needs and the nature of the project.
Risks of Cybercrime and Social Media: NEW PLAYBOOK
The risks of cybercrime claims many victims over many sectors. The PwC Global Economic Crime Survey 2020 found that a company falls victim to six frauds on average. The most common types are customer fraud, asset misappropriation as well as cybercrime. It also proved a roughly even split between frauds committed by internal and external perpetrators, at almost 40% each – with the rest being mostly collusion between the two. Few can deny the enormous technological advancements that are constantly taking place in the modern world. The internet, the computer, and other technological advancements have dramatically changed what it means to socialise, ‘chat’, and even read a book. Both the disadvantages and advantages of such developments are clear, and as technology gains pace, so have the unlawful activities of those who seek to take advantages of such developments.
According to a 2020 cybercrime report from Europol, COVID-19 sparked upward trend in cybercrime. In fact, since the beginning of the pandemic, the FBI has seen a fourfold increase in cybersecurity complaints, whereas the global losses from cybercrime exceeded $1 trillion in 2020.
In other words, as technology evolves, the risks of cybercrime have become complex. The sense that one is safe from crime in the privacy of one’s own home has been lost. In fact, according to World Economic Forum’s “Global Risks Report 2020” the chances of catching and prosecuting a cybercriminal are almost nil (0.05%).
Take the First Steps Towards Developing Measures Against the Risks of Cybercrime!
This playbook critically examines the growth of cybercrime, evaluating the risks it poses in terms of the different forms of cybercrime that exist and the regulations that seek to detect, prevent and punish them.
The extension of an old legislation to include cybercrime is not entirely effective – especially not for crimes committed within the realm of social media and social networking. Therefore the need to develop an ‘anti-cybercrime culture emerges. It has to be implemented on an international scale that safeguards these crimes – the promotion of careful use would therefore be facilitated to hinder such crimes before they can materialise. Our playbook includes:
- What is cybercrime and why is it important?
- Top corporate cybersecurity risks and 10 types of high-tech crimes
- How cybercrime impacts business and your company’s growth
- Cybercrime and regulations in place
- And how your response as a business matters – how to can you protect your business from cybercrime including advice and tips on how to telework safely
Download the full playbook today and learn step-by-step things your company can do to be better protected from cybercrime. Robust cyber-security, data protection, anti-fraud and risk management all come together to mitigate the dangers posed by hackers, phishers and other cybercriminals.
With the playbook in your hands, you’ll learn about the most common cyber attacks. This includes viruses, phishing attacks and website hacks. You’ll also gain a better understanding of the consequences of different types of cybercrime.
To sum it up, the playbook provides best-practices and ways that companies are lessening their risk without spending prohibitive resources to do so. Above all, the right expert advice means that any company can be on the right track to protecting their customers, their assets, and their employees from the risks of cybercrime.
Who is 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 Management, Employee Background Screening, Business Intelligence, Due Diligence, Compliance 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 B.S. 102000:2013 and B.S. 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.
In 2016, CRI Group launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC®) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body established for ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems, ISO 37301 Compliance Management Systems and ISO 31000:2018 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. Contact ABAC™ for more on ISO Certification and training.
John Wood Group to Pay $177 Million to Settle Bribery Charges Inherited Through its Merger
John Wood Group Bribery Probe Trace Back to its Merger with Amec Foster Wheeler Plc.
John Wood Group Plc has agreed to pay $177 million to settle the UK led bribery and corruption probe into a British engineering firm it acquired in 2017. The settlement is part of a so-called deferred prosecution agreement with the Serious Fraud Office and the US Department of Justice concerning Amec Foster Wheeler Plc.
The UK agreement is still subject to court approval. As part of the deal, the company can avoid prosecution for three years if it cooperates in the continuing bribery probe. Wood Group’s payment is one of the largest ever obtained in the UK led bribery and corruption case. The biggest was a $1.2 billion settlement with Airbus SE that also involved the US and French authorities.
In 2017, the SFO opened an investigation into Amec’s use of third parties to gain contracts, just weeks after Shareholders approved wood Group’s proposed acquisition. The DOJ said the probe concerned a scheme to pay bribes to officials in Brazil for a $190 million contract to design a gas-to-chemicals complex.
As part of the deal announced, at least $10.1 million will settle charges brought by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The DOJ said it would get about $18.4 million to resolve its criminal charges in the Brazil bribery probe. Amounts to be paid to the UK and Brazil are yet to be made public.
Wood Group announced that it was close to a settlement. It originally said it expected a deal for $186 million, with about $60 million paid in the first half of 2021 and the rest over three years. The company also agreed to pay $10 million to Scottish authorities earlier this year to settle the case.
“The investigations brought to light unacceptable, albeit historical, behaviour that I condemn in the strongest terms,” Wood Group Chief Executive Officer Robin Watson said in a statement. “Although we inherited these issues through acquisition, we took full responsibility in addressing them, as any responsible business would.”
The company has “cooperated fully with the authorities” and “taken steps to improve further our ethics and compliance program from an already strong foundation,” Watson said. “I’m pleased that, subject to final court approval in the UK, we have been able to resolve these issues and can now look to the future.”
The agreement comes amid criticism of the SFO and its inability to prosecute individuals after securing settlements with companies. Earlier this year, the SFO dropped its probe into former Airbus directors and was dealt a humiliating setback after its trial against two former Serco Group Plc directors fell apart because it failed to disclose evidence.
In May 2021, the SFO opened one of its biggest investigations into suspected fraud and money laundering concerning GFG Alliance and its financing agreements with Greensill Capital. It was after months of intense pressure from lawmakers to investigate Sanjeev Gupta’s empire.
John Wood Group bribery probe.
Source: Financial Crimes News
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The Importance of Due Diligence in Merger and Acquisition to Avoid a Similar Incident Happened like in John Wood Group.
Due diligence is understood as the reasonable steps taken to satisfy legal requirements in the conduct of business relations. That allows you to reduce risks – including risks arising from the FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) and the UKBA (UK Bribery Act), to make informed decisions and to pursue takeovers or mergers with more confidence.
Unlike other kinds of control (audits, market analysis, etc.), it must be completely independent and rely as little on information provided by the researched subject. The other important difference lies in the methodology: commercial or financial due diligence analyses available information, investigative type provides reliable and pertinent, but raw, information.
Due diligence on potential business partners when adding a new vendor or hiring a new employee is vital to confirm the legitimacy and reduce the risks associated with such professional relationships. Global integrity due diligence investigations provides your business with the critical information it needs to make sound decisions regarding mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and the selection of vendors, suppliers, and employees.
It will ensure that working with an, i.e. potential trade partner will ultimately achieve your organisation’s strategic and financial goals. CRI Group investigators employ a proven, multi-faceted research approach that involves a global array of databases, courts and public record searches, local contacts, industry and media resources, and in-depth web-based research. Our resources include:
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International business verification
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Individual business interest search
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Personal profile on individual subjects
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Company profile on corporate entities
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Historical ownership analysis
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Identification of subsidiaries & connected parties
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Global/national criminality & regulatory records checks
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Politically Exposed Person database
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International digital media research
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Company background analysis
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Industry reputational assessment
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FCPA, UK Anti-Bribery & corruption risk databases
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Global terrorism checks
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Global financial regulatory authorities checks
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Money laundering risk database
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Financial reports
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Asset tracing
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Country-specific databases that include litigation checks, law enforcement agencies & capital market regulators
DueDiligence360™ from CRI Group™
WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY KNOW ABOUT THE INTEGRITY OF THE PARTY & THEIR WAY OF DOING BUSINESS? DOES OR DID THIS PARTY ADHERE TO (INTER)NATIONAL REGULATIONS ON ANTI-CORRUPTION & ANTI-BRIBERY? IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THERE IS A LIABILITY RISK?
At CRI Group™, we specialise in Integrity Due Diligence, working as trusted partners to businesses and institutions across the world. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates.
CRI’s unique identity and vision evolved from our fundamental desire to support our clients and their candidates. Safeguard your business and its integrity with DueDiligence360™.
Our DueDiligence360™ expose vulnerabilities and threats that can cause serious damage to your organisation and can significantly reduce business. CRI Group is trusted by the world’s largest corporations and consultancies – outsource your due diligence to an experienced provider and you will only ever have to look forward, never back. Clients who partner with us benefit from our:
Expertise
CRI Group™ has one of the largest, most experienced and best-trained integrity due diligence teams in the world.
Global scope
Our multi-lingual teams have conducted assignments on thousands of subjects in over 80 countries, and we’re committed to maintaining and constantly evolving our global network.
Flexibility
Our DueDiligence360TM service is flexible and can apply different levels of scrutiny to the subjects of our assignments, according to client needs and the nature of the project.
DueDiligence360™ from CRI Group™
WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY KNOW ABOUT THE INTEGRITY OF THE PARTY & THEIR WAY OF DOING BUSINESS? DOES OR DID THIS PARTY ADHERE TO (INTER)NATIONAL REGULATIONS ON ANTI-CORRUPTION & ANTI-BRIBERY? IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THERE IS A LIABILITY RISK?
At CRI Group™, we specialise in Integrity Due Diligence, working as trusted partners to businesses and institutions across the world. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates.
CRI’s unique identity and vision evolved from our fundamental desire to support our clients and their candidates. Safeguard your business and its integrity with DueDiligence360™.
Our DueDiligence360™ expose vulnerabilities and threats that can cause serious damage to your organisation and can significantly reduce business. CRI Group is trusted by the world’s largest corporations and consultancies – outsource your due diligence to an experienced provider and you will only ever have to look forward, never back. Clients who partner with us benefit from our:
Expertise
CRI Group™ has one of the largest, most experienced and best-trained integrity due diligence teams in the world.
Global scope
Our multi-lingual teams have conducted assignments on thousands of subjects in over 80 countries, and we’re committed to maintaining and constantly evolving our global network.
Flexibility
Our DueDiligence360TM service is flexible and can apply different levels of scrutiny to the subjects of our assignments, according to client needs and the nature of the project.
10 top business risks
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 posed by the risk. According to a recent study, this is exactly the case when it comes to leaks of internal information, data theft, and reputational damage due to third-party relationships (Global Fraud Risk Report 2019/20).
This report is based on a survey of 588 senior executives from 13 countries and regions and 10 industries. It provides valuable insight into what types of threats are keeping business leaders awake at night. “The broadening of the risk landscape is visible in the types of significant incidents our survey respondents report experiencing in the last 12 months and in the priority levels they assign to various risk mitigations,” the report states. “The most frequently cited incident is leaks of internal information, reported by 39 percent. But this perennial challenge now coexists with risks from relatively recent threats, such as data theft, and even newer threats, such as adversarial social media activity.”
Business information leaks occur when confidential information is revealed to unauthorized persons or parties. This happens with alarming frequency, as recent news stories illustrate. Headlines include “Stunning iPhone 12 video shows Apple’s leaked prototype design with no notch” (BGR, 2020); “New Leaks Show Business and Politics Behind Tiktok Content Management” (China Digital Times, 2020); “DOJ charges Defense Intelligence Agency employee for leaking highly classified information to the media” (Business Insider, 2019). There can be direct and/or indirect negative repercussions from an information leak at your business. It can affect product rollouts, or give you a disadvantage in a competitive market; among other effects. At CRI Group, our experts work with companies to develop policies that provide zero-tolerance for information leaks, and put controls in place (such as secure communications and data systems) to prevent such leaks from occurring in the first place.
Data theft
Perhaps the fastest-growing scourge of businesses since the beginning of this century. Massive data breaches have cause major distrust among consumers worldwide, and have led directly to identity theft and financial crimes such as theft of credit, illegitimate loans and other schemes. Data theft involves stealing computer-based information from an unknowing victim, usually a company with a large customer or client base. This usually results in the sale or sharing or private information. Most recently, a data breach reportedly exposed more than 200 million Americans: “Data Breach Exposes 200 million Americans: What You Need To Know” (Screen Rant, 2020). In another case, a major cruise operator saw its customers’ information exposed: “Norwegian Cruise Line Suffers Data Breach” (infosecurity, 2020).
For any company that is entrusted with customers’ or members’ private information, especially personally identifying information (PII), data theft can be a devastating crime. Beyond lawsuits and financial damage caused by such a disaster, rebuilding the company’s reputation (and earning back customers’ trust) is an uphill battle that might take years or more. That’s why CRI Group recommends that every business, regardless of size or industry, make protecting customer data one of its highest priorities. Today, leading technology can help make data more secure. But even the most secure system is dependent upon a properly trained workforce that follows all of the protocols to achieve effective data protection.
Reputational damage due to third-party relationship
Another serious business risk to any organisation that partners with other companies, suppliers or contractors. Even worse, they can be completely outside of your control. Here are examples of some of the risks: A business partner is embroiled in behind-the-scenes legal battles; a supplier makes procurement decisions involving the inappropriate influence of government officials who receive kickbacks; a partner falsely claims to have experience in an industry, and cannot deliver on its contractual promises. CRI Group’s integrity due diligence experts have helped clients avoid those very scenarios. Our investigators employ a proven, multi-faceted research approach which involves a global array of databases, courts and public record searches, local contacts, industry and media resources, and in-depth web-based research.
As the report states, “The last decade has seen cybercrime evolve from an IT issue to a boardroom concern, mirroring the digital transformation of the global economy on the macro level and of business operations on the micro level. The more the business world integrates digital elements, the more likely it is that computer systems have or will become a pathway for crime.” Now, more than ever, it is important for business leaders to be proactive in managing these modern business risks. Fraudsters and those who steal information are evolving their methods every day. Depend on the experts to help you stay one step ahead.
Lets Talk!
If you have any further questions or interest in implementing compliance solutions, please contact us.
About us…
Based in London, CRI® Group works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific as a one-stop international Risk Management, Employee Background Screening, Business Intelligence, Due Diligence, Compliance 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 BS102000:2013 and BS7858:2019 Certifications is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.
In 2016, CRI® Group launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC®) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body established for ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems, ISO 37301 Compliance Management Systems and ISO 31000:2018 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. Contact ABAC® for more on ISO Certification and training.
MEET THE CEO
Zafar I. Anjum is Group Chief Executive Officer of CRI® Group (www.crigroup.com), a global supplier of investigative, forensic accounting, business due to diligence and employee background screening services for some of the world’s leading business organisations. Headquartered in London (with a significant presence throughout the region) and licensed by the Dubai International Financial Centre-DIFC, the Qatar Financial Center – QFC, and the Abu Dhabi Global Market-ADGM, CRI® Group safeguard businesses by establishing the legal compliance, financial viability, and integrity levels of outside partners, suppliers and customers seeking to affiliate with your business. CRI® Group maintains offices in UAE, Pakistan, Qatar, Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, China, the USA, and the United Kingdom.
Contact CRI® Group to learn more about its 3PRM-Certified™ third-party risk management strategy program and discover an effective and proactive approach to mitigating the risks associated with corruption, bribery, financial crimes and other dangerous risks posed by third-party partnerships.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Zafar Anjum, MSc, MS, CFE, CII, MICA, Int. Dip. (Fin. Crime) | CRI® Group Chief Executive Officer
37th Floor, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AA United Kingdom
t: +44 207 8681415 | m: +44 7588 454959 | e: zanjum@crigroup.com
Due Diligence: 4 Red Flags of Collusion
One of the many schemes that can cause serious legal and financial consequences is collusion in business. 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 to deceive others, usually for financial or market gain. Due to its secretive nature, collusion can be difficult to detect and weed out. This poses a serious problem because the consequences of noncompliance for an organisation are often severe.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is “preparing to tackle competition issues in several important markets, including alleged price-fixing in the generic-drug industry, rules for music licensing and purported employer collusion that limits options for sought-after workers” (Wall Street Journal, 2020). Indeed, these are the types of schemes that are most often associated with collusion. Price fixing is a global problem found in many different industries, for example. However it’s important to note that collusion is just as common at the local level – for example, where contractors bid to provide goods or services regularly. Sometimes competitors will engage in collusion by making secret arrangements to rotate bids or share bid details to artificially deflate prices.
In one recent case, the branch manager for a U.S.-based insulation contractor pleaded guilty in a scheme to rig bids and commit other forms of fraud on insulation contracts. The DOJ had launched an investigation into the branch manager’s actions from 2011 to 2018, finding that he “conspired with other insulation installation contractors to rig bids and engage in fraud on insulation installation contracts in Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts. Insulation installation contractors install insulation around pipes and ducts on renovation and new construction projects at universities, hospitals, and other public and private entities. In addition to his guilty plea, DeVoe has agreed to pay restitution” (DOJ, 2020). “Free and open markets are the foundation of a vibrant economy. For years, the defendant illegally coordinated bids on construction projects to enhance his profits, eliminate competition, and ultimately steal from public and private customers,” said Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of FBI’s New Haven Field Office.
The DOJ noted in its press release that this crime hurt the hospitals, universities and businesses that solicit and pay for the contractor’s services under the expectation that the bidding process is fair and above board, not rigged to benefit a contractor at their expense. The money lost in such schemes (through paying inflated contracts) often represents taxpayer dollars. The fact that collusion, in this case, lasted for at least seven years indicates that tens of thousands of dollars (or more) were likely lost through fraud.
So, what can organisations do to be better protected from collusion schemes – whether from inside their own company or perpetrated against them by outside partners/contractors? While collusion is secretive by its very nature and can be difficult to detect, red flags can indicate that something might be amiss. CRI® Group’s integrity due diligence experts are specially trained to uncover collusion in all its forms, and they describe the following as some of the signs to watch for when dealing with competitive bid contracts:
A high percentage of awards go to the same company
If a single bidder is winning most of the contracts for a particular set of goods or services, there might be something wrong despite several other contractors involved in the bidding. This is especially true if there are any issues or complaints around the bidder, such as poor quality products or services, they are late in delivering on their contracts, etc.
Lowest bidders are not winning awards
Suppose the contracts are consistently going to bidders other than the lowest bidder. In that case, this might warrant further investigation – as most contracts are considered “low bid” and would reasonably go to the lowest bidder. Also, if there is a higher-than-average range or spread between bidders, that could signal that something is off.
There is a high number of late bidders
Late bids can be a sign of collusion if bidders, or an agent at the organisation soliciting bids, are sharing bid information – such as the highest bid (so far) in an award process. This is especially true when the winning bidder is consistently the last one to submit bids. If late bidders are being approved regularly, you need to know why.
Bidders share (or have similar) names, addresses, or other information
This is an obvious red flag. In some cases, bids from two different contractors have been submitted from the same fax machine! This indicates that parties might be colluding in their bid submissions, and you need to look further.
Other countries’ DOJ and enforcement bodies have demonstrated their willingness to detect, investigate, and punish collusion. For the sake of your organisation, it is best to be proactive when it comes to your bidding and contract processes. CRI® Group’s integrity due diligence services can help you identify the above red flags. Our experts also conduct risk assessments to help find weaknesses in your business process and controls that might make your organisation vulnerable to collusion. This holds whether you need the goods or services or are a supplier or contractor submitting bids. The secret crime of collusion causes financial harm through inflated costs, representing a legal and financial liability to your organisation and/or clients. By being attuned to spot red flags, you’ll be more likely to notice the smoke …. before it turns into a fire.
Take a proactive stance with the highest integrity due diligence as a part of your essential business strategy. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of services to help your organisation stay protected. Get a FREE QUOTE
About Us
CRI® Group has safeguarded businesses from any risks, providing investigations (i.e. insurance fraud), employee background screening, investigative due diligence, business intelligence, third-party risk management, forensic accounting, compliance and other professional investigative research services. In 2016, CRI® Group launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC®) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body established for ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems, ISO 37301 Compliance Management Systems and ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management, providing training and certification. ABAC® operates through its global network of certified ethics and compliance professionals, qualified auditors and other certified professionals. Contact ABAC® for more on ISO Certification and training.
CONTACT US
Headquarter: +44 7588 454959
Local: +971 800 274552
Email: info@crigroup.com
Headquarter: 454959 7588 44
Local: 274552 800 971
Email: info@crigroup.com
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