Report serious fraud and corruption

Security impacts

Fraud against public sector organisations can impact national defence, security and community safety, putting individuals and organisations at risk. Fraud can fund organised crime and terrorism, compromise border security and increase biosecurity risks and trafficking of illegal goods.

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What impacts can look like

National defence is compromised

When fraud compromises security systems or defence operations, it can weaken a nation’s ability to effectively defend its sovereignty and its people. This can put both service personnel and citizens at risk.

Organised crime and terrorism threats

Fraud is a tool often used by organised crime and terrorist groups. It can fund further criminal activity, fund attacks and compromise community safety.

Information security breaches

Fraud can exploit vulnerabilities in information technology and lead to information leaks, privacy breaches or sabotaged systems. These incidents can erode public trust and discourage individuals from sharing sensitive information with the government. 

Damage to international standing

A country affected by high-profile fraud may lose credibility on the global stage. This can impact diplomatic relationships and reduce international support. 

Threats to other nations

International entities can use material obtained fraudulently in one country to commit fraud in another (for example, obtaining false passports) or transfer fraud methods to target programmes in other countries.

Compromised organisational security

When trusted insiders are targeted or recruited by serious and organised crime groups, both organisational and personal security can be compromised. Such breaches may have broader implications for national security — particularly in cases involving identity theft or unauthorised access to sensitive systems. 

Key questions to consider

Understanding the broader security impact of fraud means asking the right questions. 

  • If your programme was defrauded, what impacts might there be on security? 
  • Would fraud impact the security of other organisations that you engage with?
  • Could fraud in your programme impact national defence or national security? 

Other impacts

Download the full guide

Explore the full resource to identify the impacts of fraud, read about real-world examples, and consider key questions to help assess and prepare for potential risks to your programme or operations. Not every impact will apply to every organisation or initiative, but being aware of them can help your organisation strengthen its fraud prevention efforts and protect those who rely on its services.

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