While white collar crime may not make the headlines in the same way that political scandal or violent crimes do, to anyone with experience of the damage that can be done, those three little words will certainly bring an unpleasant chill. Perhaps shockingly, the FBI reports that white collar crime costs the United States over $300 billion per year, and yet many companies are woefully unaware of the risks.
Today, a new era of white collar crime is flooding the business world with smart criminality and well-covered tracks. Just as new technologies have opened the door to exciting new services and products, so too is a path laid for those willing to break the law in order to line their own pockets—unless, of course, companies get savvy and leap ahead of their would-be attackers.
Criminal activity that falls under the umbrella of white collar crime is both diverse and hard-hitting. When the prospect of internal investigations has already been raised, there is a good chance that the victim organization is hemorrhaging and time is of the essence. There is no better ally in the race to uncover put a halt to this executive misconduct than a private investigator. But, before we learn how such an investigative specalist can help, let’s cover what constitutes white collar crime, so you can be better versed to mitigate its potentially disastrous consequences.
What is White Collar Crime?
It’s easy to guess that white collar crime earned its name because this type of law breaking commonly occurs within business settings. However, it is not limited to any particular industry or setting. Instead, it describes nonviolent crimes that fall into two categories. The first is occupational crime, committed by individuals for their own illicit gain, and the second is corporate crime, committed for the illegal benefit of the company or organization. Regardless of the classification, they share toxic traits that can destroy a business from within.
In both cases, this executive misconduct might involve fraud, embezzlement, bribery, or blackmail. It may extend to forgery, money laundering, or counterfeiting; insider trading, investment schemes, or identity theft. These crimes may be committed by an employee on the premises, or they may be carried out remotely via electronic means—no doubt with the aim of remaining undetected until the spoils have been looted and the criminals in question are high and dry, leaving you to pick up the pieces.
Protect Your Livelihood With the Assistance Of a Private Investigator
When it comes to tackling white collar crime, a private investigator is an essential collaborator. Protecting your business and assets begins with fully-supported internal investigations, and in this endeavor, a corporate-specialized private investigator offers a skill and resource set that is simply unparalleled. Whether digital forensics, uncovering asset trails, or carrying out surveillance—both in person and digitally—are required, an investigative firm is uniquely poised to help you resolve the situation quickly.
Here at Lauth Investigations International, we take great pride not only in supporting the swift internal investigations that companies across the nation require, but also in providing them with the means to prevent before it even takes root. Our seasoned private investigators tackle white collar crime whenever called to, while our talented auditors deliver innovative Corporate Culture Audits—helping businesses like yours foster an environment that is functionally secure, and culturally unwelcoming to those with bad intentions. Learn more about our innovative services, or if you prefer, contact our team for no-obligation advice on how to armor up against white collar crime and so much more.