from staff
Jason Lafser, a CPA and manager with LBA Certified Public Accountants in Jacksonville, was awarded the “Certified Fraud Examiner” credential from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. He joined LBA in 2004 and earned his MBA from the University of North Florida.
You are now a certified fraud examiner, a “fraud fighter.” What does that mean?
When people think of fraud, obviously people like Bernie Madoff and Charles Ponzi, who were connected to multimillion dollar schemes, immediately come to mind. However, even in small and medium-size privately owned businesses, fraud is occurring every day. My idea of a fraud fighter is not only one who uncovers fraud that has happened in the past, but also one who is a resource to business owners in the community to provide guidance on fraud prevention, education and training so it doesn’t happen in the future.
What do you examine, and on whose behalf?
Our firm does a lot of work not only in the forensic accounting field, but also in litigation support and valuation services. In those roles, we typically work with and/or for attorneys, business owners, banks and insurance companies. We examine financial records such as bank statements and accounting records (such as general ledgers) to help us develop a clear picture of where the money trail is … or isn’t!
What are some of the more common fraudulent activities you see being committed?
Health care fraud is an area of concern, especially here in Florida. With an aging population, there have been increases in health care fraud related to durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and heating pads, as well as fraud related to long-term care insurance.
Are there new forms of fraud emerging?
Credit card fraud, telephone or utility fraud, mail fraud, passport fraud, Social Security number fraud, student loan fraud and tax fraud are all examples of different identity-theft schemes that have been in the news lately. In today’s world, there is so much personal information out there that we almost become immune to that fact and let our guards down.
What do like most about your job?
I appreciate the fact that I am able to help business owners and individuals sleep better at night knowing that policies and procedures have been put in place to help mitigate fraud.