A JOURNEY OF COLLABORATION: CLOSING REFLECTIONS ON NAFC 2024
Dear My Member Colleagues,
As the National Anti-Fraud Conference (NAFC) 2024 comes to a close, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. This conference has not only been an opportunity to gather experts and practitioners from across sectors but also a reflection of our collective determination to address the pressing issue of fraud in all its forms.
“Sareundeuk Saigel Sabobot Sapihanean: Babarengan Nyanghareupan Fraud:” or “Together Combating Fraud,” the theme of the conference, has never been more important. In a world that is growing more complex and interconnected, fraud continues to evolve, creating new challenges that require innovative solutions and collaboration across sectors. Over the past few days, we have had deep discussions, shared ground-breaking ideas, and found new ways to move forward in our shared mission of combating fraud.
The conference emphasized the complexity of modern fraud, highlighting the need for collaboration, integrity, and strong regulatory frameworks. Key discussions focused on fraud in industries like mining and construction, innovation in fraud detection technologies, and the role of public-private partnerships. Tracks on digital forensics and behavioral analysis stressed the importance of maintaining digital evidence integrity and understanding human behavior in preventing fraud. Highlighting some of the most significant themes and insights is as follow.
The conference opened with a focus on the increasing complexity of fraud, particularly due to advancements in technology, and emphasized the need for collaboration and integrity across sectors. Discussions highlighted the importance of implementing Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) frameworks to combat digital fraud, especially in the financial services sector. The role of integrity and digital transformation in fraud prevention was also underscored, along with the key message that working together and managing risks are crucial for establishing a more transparent financial system.
Our discussions in Panel 1 (Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks and Compliance) underscored the importance of a strong regulatory foundation to combat fraud. We explored the critical role that governance, risk management, and compliance play in reducing fraud risk, particularly within the financial sector. Speakers emphasized that effective regulatory frameworks must evolve to meet the dynamic nature of fraud schemes. The case studies and regulatory strategies discussed provided actionable steps for organizations to improve their internal controls and compliance mechanisms
Panel 2 (Tackling Fraud in the Mining and Construction Sectors) shed light on the unique challenges in sectors like mining and construction, where complex supply chains and political pressures often create opportunities for fraud. Issues such as bid-rigging, collusion, and politi-cally motivated project decisions were highlighted. Speakers offered practical solutions, such as digital anti-corruption tools and third-party risk management systems, to help detect and prevent fraud in these industries. The sector-specific insights
provided a framework for addressing vulnerabilities that are often overlooked but critical to ensuring integrity in these sectors.
With the rapid rise of cyber fraud, Panel 3 (Cybersecurity and Innovation in Fraud Detection) addressed the need for innovation in fraud detection technologies. As digital crimes grow in scale and complexity, organizations must stay ahead of threats by adopting cutting-edge technologies, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics. We also discussed the increasing importance of cybersecurity readiness and how organizations can build resilient systems to protect against both internal and external cyber threats. The discussion emphasized that cybersecurity is a continuous journey requiring constant vigilance, adaptation, and investment in the right tools and talent.
Collaboration emerged as a critical theme in Panel 4 (Public-Private Partnerships in Fraud Prevention), where we explored the role of public-private partnerships in preventing fraud. Fraud, particularly at the systemic level, cannot be fought in isolation. The panel highlighted successful models of cooperation between government entities, private organizations, and civil society. From shared intelligence to joint fraud prevention initiatives, it became clear that when the public and private sectors join forces, the results are far more impactful
No fraud prevention strategy is complete without a strong foundation in ethics and integrity. Panel 5 (Building a Culture of Integrity and Ethics) reminded us that fostering a culture of integrity within organizations is crucial to long-term success in fraud prevention. The discussions emphasized the role of leadership in setting the tone for ethical behavior and how organizations can embed values of honesty, transparency, and accountability in their operations. Without integrity, even the best fraud detection systems will falter.
We discussed about the importance of maintaining the integrity of digital evidence in investigations in Track 1 (Digital Forensics and Cyber Fraud Detection). This track outlined the processes involved in forensic digital investigations, from data acquisition to analysis, and the use of advanced technology to recover hidden or deleted data. The session also covered challenges in managing large volumes of data and ensuring its integrity throughout the investigative process The track also elaborated on cyber fraud, highlighting the growing sophistication of cybercrime and the tools available to detect and prevent such frauds, including phishing schemes and deepfake detection.
Track 2 (Behavioral Analysis and Investigative Interviews) focused on the use of forensic psychology to analyze the behavior and motivations of fraudsters, particularly through psychological interviews. How the Fraud Triangle and other psychological models help uncover motivations behind fraud is also discussed. The track also elaborated on the role of non-verbal cues and gestures in investigative interviews, emphasizing how carefully observing gestures can reveal crucial information about a subject’s honesty or deception. Those tracks highlighted the importance of understanding human behavior, both verbal and non-verbal, in the fight against fraud
A key highlight before the conference was the Call for Paper symposium, where students and academics presented 47 research papers on fraud examination and related topics.
This event showcased innovative approaches from academia, enriching discussions on anti-fraud strategies and strengthening the research base for Indonesia’s future fraud prevention efforts. It was an important step in involving the academic community in advancing anti-fraud initiatives through research and knowledge sharing.
This year’s conference embraced also local wisdom and culture, reflecting the values of West Java through traditional elements like the Rampak Gendang dance, Bobodoran Calungan, and Sundanese cuisine. These cultural expressions enriched the event and reinforced the importance of rooting the fight against fraud in integrity and honesty. The Bobodoran Calungan performance, featuring Mang Udjo, seamlessly blended anti-fraud messages on Corruption, Collusion, and Nepotism (KKN) with local comedy and music.
The success of this conference reflects the hard work and dedication of many. I extend my thanks to our esteemed speakers for their invaluable insights and expertise in shaping the discussions on fraud prevention. I also thank the organizing committee for their tireless efforts in ensuring the event’s flawless execution, from planning to closing. Your dedication has been truly inspiring.
Thank you to all participants for your outstanding engagement, passion, and commitment to reducing fraud, which fuels the impact of this event. The exchanges and networking will inspire change in your organizations. I also extend deep thanks to our sponsors, whose generous support and commitment to fighting fraud and promoting transparency have been invaluable to the success of this year’s NAFC.
As we conclude this conference, I urge you to apply the knowledge gained here in your workplaces and communities. Fraud is a constant challenge, but by collaboration, we can reduce its impact and create a more transparent, accountable world. In light of our discussions, the conference offered the following recommendations to further strengthen our fight against fraud:
- Implement robust GRC frameworks across sectors to enhance oversight and minimize fraud risks.
- Foster cooperation between public, private, and civil society organizations to share intelligence and implement joint anti-fraud initiatives.
- Embed integrity and ethics within organizational culture by promoting transparent leadership and accountability.
- Provide regular anti-fraud training and awareness programs to help employees recognize and report fraud risks.
- Establish third-party due diligence processes, especially in vulnerable sectors like mining and construction.
- Adopt cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, and big data analytics to detect and prevent fraud in real-time.
- Continuously improve cybersecurity measures to safeguard against evolving threats and protect against cyber fraud.
- Use forensic digital tools to ensure the integrity of evidence in fraud investigations.
- Apply forensic psychology and behavioral analysis in interviews to better understand fraudster motivations and identify deception.
- Engage academic institutions and researchers to support innovation and share knowledge on anti-fraud strategies.
Together, we have the power to shape a future defined by transparency, accountability, and integrity. Let’s carry forward the spirit of NAFC 2024 in everything we do.
Thank you for your participation and commitment for “Together Reducing Fraud Worldwide”.
Warmest regards
Dr. Hery Subowo, CFE
President ACFE Indonesia Chapter