Fraud Talk

Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)

Fraud Talk is the monthly podcast of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). In these sessions, we break down case studies, talk with the anti-fraud industry’s leading experts, and give you more tools to spot, fight and prevent fraud.

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21 episodes
monthly
Avg 36 min
English

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#173
September 11 · 19 min
Sports Betting Fraud: How Fraudsters Are Gaming the System - Greg Gemignani - Episode 170
The sports betting boom has changed more than how people wager. It has opened new avenues for identity theft, money laundering and other forms of fraud. This episode of Fraud Talk takes a deep dive into a new Fraud Magazine article tracing the schemes taking shape across the industry. Gaming attorney Greg Gemignani joins us to unpack what makes sports betting attractive to fraudsters, where the vulnerabilities lie and what anti-fraud professionals should be watching as the industry continues to grow. —————————————— Concentrix: Download the new white paper "Rewriting the Rules: How AI Is Transforming Fraud and Dispute Resolutions" at Concentrix.com/Fraud-Dispute-Whitepaper.
#172
August 7 · 43 min
Examining Interpol's Operation First Light 2026 - Mason Wilder and Jason Zirkle - Episode 169
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Research Director Mason Wilder, CFE, and Training Director Jason Zirkle, CFE, join the show to examine the results of Interpol's Operation First Light 2026, a global enforcement effort involving 97 countries that led to thousands of arrests, the identification of more than 142,000 victims and the interception of nearly $293 million in illicit funds. The conversation explores what an investigation of this size reveals about the modern fraud landscape, including the growing professionalization of fraud networks and the rise of global criminal enterprises operating like mature businesses. Wilder and Zirkle discuss how fraud schemes have evolved beyond individual bad actors into interconnected ecosystems involving recruiters, money launderers, data brokers and other specialized participants. This episode also highlights the importance of information sharing, public-private partnerships and cross-border collaboration, offering practical insights for fraud examiners working to identify larger criminal networks hidden behind seemingly isolated cases.
#171
June 5 · 51 min
Culture, Compliance and Humanizing Fraud Risk - Dr. Ursula Schmidt - Episode 168
In this episode of Fraud Talk, Ursula Schmidt, Ph.D., CCEP-I, founder of Schmidt Advisory and a former executive vice president of audit and compliance, joins the show to explore how culture, communication and human behavior shape effective fraud risk management. Drawing on her global experience in internal audit and compliance, Dr. Schmidt explains why fraud is fundamentally a human problem, the importance of clear ownership of fraud risk, and why organizations must move beyond checklists and controls to address trust, transparency and accountability through honest communication and expectations. Also in this episode, ACFE Chief Training Officer Andi McNeal, CFE, CPA, answers questions about the human element of fraud risk management and the value that tone-at-the-top culture brings to ensure all layers of an organization work together to improve prevention and detection. Do you have questions about fraud? Reach out to us at Communications@ACFE.com.
#170
May 15 · 39 min
30 Years of Occupational Fraud Insights: Making the Report to the Nations - John Warren and Andi McNeal - Episode 167
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE CEO John Warren, J.D., CFE, and Chief Training Officer Andi McNeal, CFE, CPA, join the show to explore Occupational Fraud 2026: A Report to the Nations — from its origins to its impact in the anti-fraud profession. The conversation traces the biennial report’s evolution over three decades, beginning with the first edition in 1996 to its role today as a global benchmark built on thousands of detailed case submissions provided by Certified Fraud Examiners (CFEs). These conversations reveal how the report is created, from the collection of thousands of survey responses to analyzing and refining the information into meaningful insights. They discuss trends revealed through the data, including the role of tips in detecting fraud and the human element of identifying behavioral red flags, to balancing long-standing findings with new perspectives in each edition. This episode also highlights the collaborative nature of the anti-fraud profession, emphasizing how contributions from CFEs worldwide make the report possible and help organizations better understand and respond to fraud risk. Download Occupational Fraud 2026: A Report to the Nations for free at ACFE.com/RTTN. —————————————— Concentrix: Download the new white paper "Rewriting the Rules: How AI Is Transforming Fraud and Dispute Resolutions" at https://www.concentrix.com/insights/thought-leadership/how-ai-is-transforming-fraud-and-dispute-resolutions/.
#169
April 3 · 47 min
The Power of Voice Biometrics in Today's Fraud Risk Landscape - Simon Marchand - Episode 166
In this episode of Fraud Talk, fraud prevention expert and biometrics expert Simon Marchand, CFE, joins the show to explore how voice biometrics and AI-powered identity verification are reshaping the fight against fraud. This conversation follows the evolution of biometric technology from its origins as a customer authentication tool to its current role as a frontline defense against deepfakes, synthetic voices and large-scale orchestrated attacks. Marchand breaks down how fraudsters are leveraging AI to industrialize identity fraud, why language is no longer a barrier for bad actors operating across borders, and what organizations must consider when evaluating biometric solutions for their own risk environments. The discussion also examines the ethical and legal aspects of biometric data — including transparency, consent and governance — and what anti-fraud professionals must know as this technology becomes increasingly used across industries. —————————————— Concentrix: Download the new white paper "Rewriting the Rules: How AI Is Transforming Fraud and Dispute Resolutions" at https://www.concentrix.com/insights/thought-leadership/how-ai-is-transforming-fraud-and-dispute-resolutions/
#168
March 6 · 19 min
Transparency, Trade and Fighting Corruption Across the Globe - Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala - Episode 165
In this episode of Fraud Talk, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala, Director‑General of the World Trade Organization and recipient of the ACFE’s Cressey Award for lifetime achievement, speaks with ACFE Chief Training Officer Andi McNeal, CFE, CPA, in a conversation recorded at the 36th Annual ACFE Global Fraud Conference. Dr. Okonjo‑Iweala reflects on the critical role transparency, strong institutions and accountability play in preventing fraud and corruption, and where technology can reduce risk alongside the key component of human judgment. She also shares insights on Africa’s future in the global fight against corruption, lessons in building consensus under pressure and advice for women leaders grounded in values, courage and purpose.
#167
February 6 · 46 min
Building Your Brand: Career Growth and Visibility for Anti-Fraud Professionals - Chris Ekimoff - Episode 164
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Communications Director John Duffley welcomes back forensic accountant and consultant Chris Ekimoff, CFE, CPA, for a conversation on career development, personal branding and professional visibility in the anti-fraud field. Drawing on his experience as a practitioner, educator and speaker, Ekimoff shares practical advice on using social media authentically, evaluating opportunities, balancing general expertise with specialization and building meaningful professional relationships both online and in person. Their discussion also explores consulting, managing client expectations, storytelling as a critical skill, and why “dedicate, don’t dabble” is key to long-term growth and impact.
#166
January 9 · 45 min
The Most Scandalous Fraud Cases of 2025 - Fraud Talk - Episode 163
In this episode of Fraud Talk, Fraud Magazine Editor-in-Chief Jen Liebman, CFE, is joined by ACFE President and CEO John Warren, J.D., CFE, to break down the most scandalous frauds of 2025 and what they reveal about today’s global fraud landscape. The discussion explores a series of sprawling international schemes, from what may be the largest Medicare fraud in U.S. history to cyber scam operations tied to human trafficking, pig butchering cryptocurrency scams, government corruption that destabilized a national economy and a state-sponsored crypto hack linked to North Korea. Along the way, they examine the growing scale and sophistication of transnational fraud, the human consequences behind the headlines and the critical role anti-fraud professionals play in confronting increasingly complex financial crime.
#165
Nov 11, 2025 · 46 min
Decoding the Future: Strategic Foresight for Fraud Examiners - Heather Vescent - Episode 162
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Communications Director John Duffley sits down with Heather Vescent, a futurist, researcher and CEO of The Purple Tornado, to explore how strategic foresight can empower anti-fraud professionals to anticipate emerging threats and adapt to rapid technological change. The conversation covers the evolving role of AI in fraud detection, the importance of human intuition alongside automation, and the promise and challenges of new technologies such as decentralized identity. Vescent shares practical insights on blending technology and human expertise to build resilient, future-ready anti-fraud programs.
#164
Oct 3, 2025 · 35 min
The Bored Room: How Apathy Is Undermining Your Ethics Training - Garth Sheriff - Episode 161
In this episode of Fraud Talk, we explore an often-overlooked risk factor inside organizations: boredom. Guest Garth Sheriff, CFE, CPA, educator and former actor, joins ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins to examine how disengagement in ethics training and workplace culture can quietly open the door to fraud. Sheriff draws on his unique background in accounting, acting and continuing education to show why storytelling and lived experience matter more than checklists when it comes to ethics.
#163
Sep 3, 2025 · 37 min
Stolen Lives on the Dark Web - David Maimon - Episode 160
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins speaks with David Maimon, a leading cyber crime and dark web researcher, to explore how the fraud landscape is being shaped by technology and organized criminal networks. Maimon shares how his work monitoring dark web activity uncovers trends like the use of AI in fraud, the rise of synthetic identities and the exploitation of death row inmates' information. He breaks down the fraud ecosystem, explains how public data can fuel identity theft and highlights red flags that can help fraud teams spot synthetic profiles.
#162
Jul 25, 2025 · 22 min
How Fraudsters Target Lean Teams and Fast-Moving Companies - Shai Gabay - Episode 159
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins speaks with Shai Gabay, CEO and co-founder of TrustMi, to explore how fraudsters are capitalizing on overworked teams, rushed vendor payments and internal blind spots to execute sophisticated B2B payment scams. From AI-assisted impersonation to social engineering tactics that prey on urgency, Gabay breaks down the fraud risks hiding in plain sight and what organizations can do to stay ahead without slowing down.
#161
Jul 3, 2025 · 32 min
The Recruiter Isn't Real: Job Seekers, Scammers and the Hidden Brand Risk - Jim McConnell - Episode 158
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Communications Director John Duffley speaks with Jim McConnell, CFE, about the growing threat of applicant fraud and hiring scams. With job seekers under increasing pressure, scammers exploit emotions and new technologies to steal personal information, impersonate companies and damage employer brands. McConnell breaks down the red flags of fraudulent recruiters, the rise of comment poisoning on platforms like LinkedIn, and how CFEs and HR teams can work together to spot and stop this emerging threat.
#160
Jun 6, 2025 · 30 min
Under Pressure: Why Younger Generations Are Falling for and Committing Fraud - Crystal Zuzek - Episode 157
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins interviews Fraud Magazine Assistant Editor Crystal Zuzek, co-author of "Under Pressure". They explore the rising fraud risks facing Gen Z and millennials, both as victims and as perpetrators. From emotionally manipulative scams like sextortion to friendly fraud and the glamorization of con artists, Zuzek shares insight and real stories that reveal how digital lifestyles and economic pressures are shaping the next generation.
#159
May 2, 2025 · 35 min
The Hidden Costs of Speaking Up: What Fraud Examiners Need to Know About Whistleblowers - Jacqueline Garrick - Episode 156
Whistleblowers are often key to uncovering fraud—but what happens after they report? In this episode of Fraud Talk, Jacqueline Garrick, founder of Whistleblowers of America and the Workplace Promise Institute, shares her journey from whistleblower to advocate. From moral injury to PTSD, Garrick shares how peer support and trauma-informed workplaces can protect whistleblowers and strengthen fraud prevention efforts.
#158
Apr 4, 2025 · 29 min
Fraud Prevention in Action: How Students Are Gaining Real-World Experience - Victor Cardona - Episode 155
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins speaks with Victor Cardona, adjunct professor of forensic accounting at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, to discuss their “Day in the Life of an IRS Agent” program. The initiative immerses students in real-world forensic accounting and criminal investigation scenarios, offering a hands-on look at careers in fraud prevention and compliance. Cardona shares how interactive education, mentorship and networking are key to inspiring the next generation of anti-fraud professionals—and why promoting ethical standards early on is essential in shaping the future workforce.
#157
Mar 7, 2025 · 29 min
Inside the In-House Fraud Investigation Teams Benchmarking Report - Mason Wilder - Episode 154
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Communications Director John Duffley sits down with Mason Wilder, CFE, ACFE Research Director, to break down the newly released In-House Fraud Investigation Teams: 2025 Benchmarking Report. Dive into a detailed discussion on how organizations are structuring their fraud teams—from the increasing number of investigators to the unique challenges they face across different company sizes. Learn about the role of in-house teams versus outsourced investigations, the evolving skill sets required in today’s complex fraud landscape and the critical balance between case volume and team efficiency.
#156
Feb 7, 2025 · 30 min
AI’s Double-Edged Sword in Banking: Fighting Fraud While Avoiding Collateral Damage - Kennedy Meda - Episode 153
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing fraud prevention in the banking industry, enhancing detection and risk management. But with these advancements come new challenges—fraudsters using AI to exploit vulnerabilities, biases in algorithms and the need for regulatory adaptation. In this episode, ACFE Content Manager Rihonna Scoggins speaks with fraud expert Kennedy Meda about the impact of AI on banking fraud, the balance between automation and human oversight and how financial institutions can stay ahead of emerging threats.
#155
Jan 3, 2025 · 52 min
The Top 5 Most Scandalous Frauds of 2024 - John Warren - Episode 152
In this episode of Fraud Talk, John Warren, CEO of the ACFE, and Jennifer Liebman, Editor-in-Chief of Fraud Magazine, delve into some of 2024's most scandalous fraud cases. From Boeing's guilty plea tied to deadly aviation crashes to Vietnam's sentencing of a real estate tycoon to death for embezzlement, they explore the global implications of these high-profile frauds. Tune in to understand the evolving nature of fraud, including the role of AI and platforms like TikTok in modern schemes, and uncover critical lessons for prevention and compliance.
#154
Dec 6, 2024 · 47 min
Whistleblowers Wanted: Inside the DOJ’s Corporate Crime Crackdown - Patrick Gushue - Fraud Talk - Episode 151
In this episode of Fraud Talk, ACFE Research Specialist Sam May interviews Patrick Gushue, Acting Director of the Department of Justice's Corporate Whistleblower Awards pilot program. Together, they delve into the program's mission to uncover corporate crime by empowering whistleblowers and fostering a culture of accountability. Patrick provides an in-depth look at the program's focus on internal reporting, compliance frameworks and innovative incentives designed to encourage reporting of misconduct.

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