THE Kwa-Zulu Natal province has the highest proportion of fraud in false documents. According to the South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS), the highest proportion of fraud categorized by false documents and employment is committed by perpetrators between 25 and 30 years of age.
The South African Fraud Prevention Service has compiled research to identify certain characteristics of fraudsters. Manie van Schalkwyk of SAFPS says you could be among fraudsters who look just like your average unsuspecting citizen going about their business. The only difference is that their business is fraud.
“Unfortunately, it is very unlikely that you would recognize such an individual because they move in commercial circles, just like everyone else. However, it is their intention that could differ.” she said.
SAFPS found that fraud perpetrators tend to have high risk bureau profiles which could result in a decline decision being returned for a relatively high proportion of these cases. However, depending on the risk appetite of the lender, not all fraud perpetrators would be declined if the assessment was based purely on a credit risk score. Perpetrators in the lower score range tend to commit fraud categorized by false documents and employment, while perpetrators in the higher score range tend to commit fraud characterized by impersonation.
“Checking the SAFPS database is essential to assist in identifying possible fraud perpetrators. This applies to individuals, small business and corporates who wish to avoid putting themselves at risk of transacting in circumstances that result in fraud. We utilised the CSH Group (Scoresharp) to conduct an analysis of our data,” said Van Schalkwyk.
She said results show there are slightly more perpetrators between 25 and 30 years of age, than there are between 30 and 35 years of age. The highest proportion of fraud categorized by impersonation is committed by perpetrators between 30 and 35 years of age.
