Financial Crime World

New Zealand Finance Industry Hit by Fraudulent Activities, Report Reveals

Alarming Rate of Frauds Exposed in Latest KPMG Report

A new report from KPMG’s Forensic team has highlighted the significant issue of fraudulent activities in New Zealand’s finance industry over the past 12 months. According to the KPMG Fraud Barometer 2023, company owners and management were found to be the most common category of perpetrators by volume, with advisers and employees following closely behind.

Perpetrators and Values

The report analyzed reported frauds between August 1, 2022, and July 31, 2023, revealing that:

  • Company owners and management were the most common category of perpetrators by volume
  • Business owners continued to be the most common category of perpetrators by value, with a total value of large fraud cases amounting to $21.6 million
  • The previous year’s figure was significantly higher at $105.8 million, which included a single fraud valued at $80 million

Vulnerability to Fraud

The government sector was found to be particularly vulnerable to fraud, with Inland Revenue being the most targeted institution. The report noted that nearly 60% of cases in this year’s barometer were committed against Inland Revenue.

Growing Threat of Cybercrime

The KPMG Fraud Barometer also highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime, which saw financial losses due to cybercrime rise by two-thirds in the first quarter of the year. This is attributed to the increasing sophistication of fraudsters and their ability to use technology to their advantage.

Key Insights

Other key insights from the report include:

  • The trend towards “super frauds” - those valued at over $1 million - decreased to three this year, down from seven last year
  • The value of large fraud cases has remained reasonably steady year on year, excluding the outlier mentioned earlier

Importance of Robust Internal Controls and Fraud Risk Management Frameworks

The KPMG Fraud Barometer serves as a reminder of the importance of robust internal controls and effective fraud risk management frameworks for all organizations in the finance industry. It is essential for companies to stay vigilant and proactive in detecting and preventing fraudulent activities to avoid financial losses and reputational damage.

Services Offered by KPMG’s Forensic Team

KPMG’s Forensic team offers a range of services to support organizations in their fight against fraud, including:

  • Performing fraud maturity assessments
  • Conducting fraud risk assessments
  • Providing confidential whistleblowing hotlines
  • Independently investigating alleged or suspected fraud

By staying informed and taking proactive measures, organizations can reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities and maintain their reputation and financial stability.