Is It Fraud… or Just a Little Creative Paperwork?

You’ve probably committed a version of fraud, but didn’t want to realize it.

(Not saying you’re a criminal. But let’s not pretend it’s a huge leap from “convenient” to “questionable.”)

Most people think of fraud as elaborate Ponzi schemes, offshore accounts, or million-dollar embezzlements. But in the real world, fraud often starts small.
Not with conspiracy, but with convenience.

Ever done one of these?

• Padded an expense report “just a little”?

• Omitted side income on your taxes because it felt insignificant?

• Swapped a detailed receipt for one that mysteriously leaves out the tequila shots?

• Signed your spouse’s name to a document “with their permission”?

None of those necessarily make you a felon. But they aren’t squeaky clean either. And once that door cracks open, the slope gets slick fast.

So what separates an innocent mistake from fraud?

Three things:

• Intent – Was it an accident, or was there a plan?

• Materiality – Did it matter? Did someone lose money or make a decision based on it?

• Pattern – Is it a one-time issue or a recurring behavior?

And let’s be honest—sometimes the only difference between a misunderstanding and a felony is whether the reviewer has subpoena power.

As a forensic accountant, I’ve seen how small rationalizations snowball. One little fudge. One “everyone does it.” Suddenly, it’s not just a mistake—it’s evidence.

Fraud isn't just about “bad guys.” It’s about human behavior. The key to stopping it? Recognizing how and where it starts.

Blake Files Forensic Solutions works with attorneys and individuals when those little mistakes become big problems. If it involves financial records, questionable transactions, or you suspect someone isn’t telling the whole story, I can help untangle it.

👉 Book a confidential consultation