The Role of the Forensic Accountant in a Medicare Fraud Identity Theft Case

Abstract:     
Identity theft is a rampant problem in the United States. It occurs when one’s personal information is stolen for the purpose of impersonating that person, making unauthorized purchases, taking money from bank accounts, opening new lines of credit with the stolen information, or using that information for other financial gain. According to a recent survey by the Javelin Strategy and Research Center, at least one in ten people have been the victim of identity theft. Forensic accountants and fraud specialists can help to prevent, detect and prosecute identity theft. This study examines a case of identity theft involving Medicare fraud. The role that the forensic accountant may play in the prosecution is discussed. The forensic accountant is important in these types of cases because the financial trail must be traced and will lead back to the criminal. The forensic accountant also has the important job of preparing the evidence exhibits for the prosecutors to use in court.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 8

Keywords: forensic accounting, Medicare fraud, identity theft

JEL Classification: M40, M49

Accepted Paper Series