Fraud is a persistent and growing problem that affects individuals, companies, and economies. This course will provide an overview of the scope of fraud, its impact, and the challenges faced in preventing, investigating, and prosecuting fraud cases in Canada. Students will learn about the different types of fraud, including cyber fraud, investment fraud, and identity theft. They will also explore the catastrophic impact of fraud on individuals, companies, and society, including the surge in fraud cases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The course will examine the challenges with reporting fraud, including shame, anxiety, and lack of feedback, and the importance of reporting fraud for intelligence gathering and disrupting criminal activities. Students will learn the steps to take after suffering a fraud loss, such as reporting the loss immediately to law enforcement and financial institutions, acknowledging the loss, and keeping track of all evidence related to the fraud loss.

The course will also explore the basic questions people should ask themselves to avoid investment fraud and the importance of putting basic questions front and center in investment decisions. Students will learn about the ingenuity of fraudsters and the different tactics they use to exploit the human element of fraud.

They will also examine the challenges with investigating and prosecuting fraud cases in Canada, including the adaptability of fraudsters and the need to be constantly proactive in protecting against fraud.

By the end of this course, students will have a better understanding of the scope of fraud, its impact, and the challenges faced in preventing, investigating, and prosecuting fraud cases in Canada. They will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect themselves against fraud and to take the appropriate steps if they become a victim of fraud.