November 16 – 22, 2025 is International Fraud Awareness Week. What is that? We are glad you asked!

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) estimates that organizations lose 5% of their revenue annually due to fraud. Fraud is defined as "actions that are meant to deceive for financial or personal gain." Occupational fraud is fraud committed by people who work for, or do business with, an organization.

Why should you care about fraud as an employee at Boston University? Let us tell you! Fraud causes significant loss to organizations both financially and reputationally. Additionally, fraud can dramatically affect the quality of life of its victims—and the employees of its victims—resulting in job losses, the loss of savings and investments, weakened trust in public institutions and a significant strain on resources.

During International Fraud Awareness Week, Internal Audit & Advisory Services is committed to helping YOU identify things that you can do within your own department to protect BU and be a fraud fighter! Listed below are six resources and activities that can reduce the risk of fraud in your own department today.

Everyone has a role to play in the prevention of fraud. Help BU protect its finances—and its reputation—from harm by being alert to potential fraud and educate your colleagues on how they can be fraud fighters too!

The University has established an anonymous reporting hotline, independently administered by a third-party provider NAVEX EthicsPoint, to allow for anonymous and confidential reporting of activities that may involve improper conduct or violations of Boston University policies. All reports will be investigated promptly and discreetly by the University, receiving careful consideration with the objective of addressing any improper conduct or violation of University policy. This hotline is not a substitute for, nor does it supersede, any existing reporting methods or protocols for handling concerns and complaints. If you would like to report your concern to Boston University directly and are uncertain how to begin, contact Compliance Services (comply@bu.edu; 617-358-8090) for assistance.