Definitions of fraud

Fraud encompasses a number of areas that have been defined as follows:

  • Theft – defined as dishonestly appropriating of the property of another with the intention of permanently depriving them of it (Theft Act 1968). This may include the removal of funds, assets or cash.
     
  • False accounting –Dishonestly destroying defacing concealing or falsifying any account, record or document that is used for any accounting purpose, with a view to personal gain or gain for another, or with intent to cause loss to another or furnishing information which is or may be misleading, false or deceptive (Theft Act 1968)
     
  • Bribery – Any circumstances where an inducement or reward is offered or given which may influence the actions of others (Audit Commission). Please also refer to the Bribery Act (2010)
     
  • Corruption – The offering, giving, soliciting or acceptance of an inducement or reward which may influence the actions taken by the authority, its members or officers (Prevention of Corrupt Practices Act 1896 and 1916)
     
  • Deception – An act of hiding the truth, especially to get an advantage
     
  • Collusion – Secret agreement or cooperation especially for an illegal or deceitful purpose (Source: Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary)