A recent study by Annika Bonrath and Marc Eulerich, published in the International Journal of Auditing, embarks on an insightful exploration into the integral role of Internal Audit Functions (IAF) in the domain of fraud prevention and detection. This research is timely, given the increasing complexities within organizational structures and the rising prevalence of fraudulent activities. Utilizing a survey dataset from 275 Chief Audit Executives across Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, the study delves into the determinants influencing the IAF’s involvement in fraud risk management. The findings reveal that a strong corporate governance environment plays a crucial role in enhancing the IAF’s efforts in combating fraud. Moreover, the study unveils a nuanced perspective on the interaction between internal auditing and organizational leadership structures, indicating that closer involvement with management correlates with heightened fraud prevention and detection activities, whereas increased interactions with the audit committee might have the opposite effect.
The use of technology-based auditing techniques emerged as a significant driver for an IAF’s engagement in fraud risk management, suggesting that innovation in auditing tools is paramount in identifying and mitigating fraud risks effectively. These findings are not only foundational for understanding the dynamics of internal auditing in the context of fraud but also serve as a clarion call for organizations to bolster their governance structures and embrace technological advancements in auditing practices.
This research fills a critical gap in the literature by providing empirical evidence on the factors that shape the IAF’s role in managing fraud risk, addressing calls for further exploration into this area. It challenges prevailing assumptions and contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of internal auditing’s responsibilities in fraud prevention and detection. The implications of this study are profound, offering actionable insights for organizations striving to fortify their defenses against fraud and underscoring the indispensable role of internal auditing in maintaining ethical integrity within corporate environments.