The Human Face of Fraud
Blog | March 23, 2021
Three years ago, I ran an on-site training on the topic of data quality. The room was packed and people were excited to discuss trends. One client in particular asked a lot of questions about how and why fraud happens. I answered their questions with a story around a common scenario at the time.
Making it Personal
I shared that fraudulent survey activity was connected to Venezuela. This was around the same time the global news had been reporting heavily on the food crisis there that was leaving too many hungry. Ration boxes were the norm. I asked them to consider the value of US $1.50 at the time in Venezuela. I told that story in other rooms before, but on that day, the human side of why fraud happens really hit home.
Follow the Money
Fast forward to 2020. A global pandemic puts millions out of work. People all over the world are locked in their houses, spending more time online. Remember that Market Research is an $80 billion industry. With all of that money flying around (for publishers and respondents) naturally changes the face of fraud. It’s not just a foreign problem.. Fraud happens in our backyard, with organized “farms” doing what they can to capture a piece of the $80 billion pie.
As a result, today’s fraud is way more complex and way more local. But you don’t have to go about combatting it alone. We fight the good fight all day and constantly adapt as it all evolves.
Want to talk about your recent problem projects? We’re here to listen… and help. Reach out to us!