FREE eBook | Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG)

In January 2023 a new German law, known as the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG, short for Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz in German), becomes effective and applies to companies operating or trading in Germany. This eBook looks at the key issues in the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.

The Supply Chain Due Diligence Act requires businesses to undergo significant efforts in order to achieve compliance. The law introduces a legal requirement for businesses to manage social and environmental issues in their supply chains, through more responsible business practices. We’ve compiled more details on the act in our FREE ebook that can be downloaded now!

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What is The Supply Chain Due Diligence Act All About?

In Part 1 of this eBook, we will provide a first outline of the Act’s material contents and an in-depth analysis of the applicability of the Act to various corporate structures.

The eBook is the collection of a series of articles in which we will take a closer look at key issues. It addresses the question of what you can do to adequately prepare yourself at this early stage rather than wait till later in the year. We would be happy to provide you with individual advice, as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Preparatory Actions for Supply Chain Due Diligence Act

In Part Two of the Playbook, we’ll explore what preparatory actions you can take and how an effective risk management plan can be achieved and implemented through several services including due diligence.

Global integrity due diligence investigations provide your business with the critical information it needs in making sound decisions regarding mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships and the selection of vendors and suppliers. The level of due diligence will ensure that working with a potential i.e. trade partner will ultimately achieve your organisation’s strategic and financial goals.

Operating in the international market requires organisations to establish partnerships with numerous third parties, which supply raw materials, run business operations abroad and/or act as agents. At the same time, third parties are considered as the greatest area of bribery risks for international enterprises. Under the Bribery Act 2010, British-based organisations have to conduct due diligence on their third parties as the core principle of meeting the adequate procedures requirement.

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IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM!

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Employee Background Screening FAQs – PART I: What, Why and Who?

How do you know the candidate you just offered a role to is the ideal candidate, when it comes to Employee Background Screening? Are you 100% sure that everything they’re telling you is the truth? Or are you 90% certain? They showed you a diploma: How do you know it’s not photoshopped? Did you follow the correct procedures during your background checks process? Who Performs Background Screening? What’s Involved in Background Checks covering History Around the Globe? Why do Employers Check Criminal History?

Employee Background Screening: What, Why & Who?

This three-part series of articles looks at employee background screening FAQs.

Part One of the series, “What, Why and Who?” provides an introduction to employee background checks and the necessary screenings that are vital to avoid horror stories and taboo tales that occur within your business. Part Two, “Pre-Employment Checks,” are essentially an investigation into a person’s character – inside and outside their professional lives. Part Three, “Conflict of interest check & FACIS Searches,” checks for any conflict of interests and sanctions, exclusions, debarments and disciplinary actions. To receive the next series subscribe to our monthly newsletter subscribe now!

Taken as a whole, this ebook on employee background screening FAQs developed by the CRI® Group is the perfect primer for HR professionals and companies wanting guidance on background screening, pre-employment screening and post-employment background checks.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL SERIES HERE

WE’VE COMPILED A LIST OF OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO DO WITH BACKGROUND SCREENING. IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR BELOW, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM!

At CRI Group™, we specialise in employment screening, working as trusted partners to HR and recruiting managers of corporations and institutions worldwide. Our people work with energy, insight and care to ensure we provide a positive experience to everyone involved – clients, reference providers and candidates. Simply investing in sufficient screening systems can save you time, money and heartbreak.

LET’S TALK

Why Conduct Pre-employment Background Checks?

To protect the company from various potential risks, a background check is considered an imperative pre-employment screening step before hiring. Companies often assume that the applicants are telling the truth on their resumes – what if they are not?

These checks are essentially an investigation into a person’s character – inside and outside their professional lives. Some checks you probably already carry out in-house, such as the candidate’s qualifications (documents provided), work history (with a reference check), right to work in the country and even a quick social media presence scan.

A Pre Employment Background Check: Who conducts it?

Permanent, temporary, benefit-eligible, non-benefit eligible, full-time and part-time staff require an acceptable background check.

Former employees, including retirees, are also subject to a background check if a contract breach occurs.

You could have an in-house HR team or contract with a third party vendor like CRI Group™.

Why Should I Contract a Third Party Vendor if I have an In-House Team?

You may have the capabilities to carry out the above services; however, to perform a full in-depth background screening service for candidates and employees at all levels, you need a considerable amount of manpower and skills – and it can be all-consuming work.

A third party vendor such as CRI Group™, with a global network that works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, is a one-stop international Risk Management, Background Screening and Due Diligence solutions provider that brings true value to you and your team.

By contracting, you can benefit from the following:

• Cost Control & Savings
• Time Savings / Response Time
• Customer Service / Quality Control
• Expertise & Core Competency
• Technology & know-how

What Other Checks Can a Third Party Vendor Execute Better Than My In-House Team?

From checks on senior executives through to shop-floor employees, a full in-depth background check should include:

• Address Verification (Physical Verification)
• Identity Verification
• Previous Employment Verification
• Education & Credential Verification
• Local Language Media Check
• Credit Verification & Financial History (where publicly available)
• Compliance & Regulatory Check
• Civil Litigation Record Check
• Bankruptcy Record Check
• International Criminal Record Check
• Integrity Due Diligence…
  and more.

Why is it Important?

These checks can reduce the risk of hiring someone who could cause irrevocable damage. Firms spend years, thousands, even millions to brand their products and services and one bad hire can cause a loss of capital and reputation to the extent that may cause a business to fail. A robust pre-employment check can help you and your company:

• Reduce turnover & training costs
• Gain a competitive edge through the hiring of better people
• Increase productivity – help your employees be more productive knowing that everyone employed by your company has been screened
• Set your company apart & win more business
• Reduce employee-related problems
• Protect company reputation/brand & customer relations
• Comply with mandates created by state or federal law for certain industries
• Increase retention
• Reduce negligent hiring claims
• Avoid violence in the workplace (threats of violence & actual violence)
• Reduce theft & espionage
• Avoid lawsuits & the costs associated with the defence
• Avoid loss of goodwill
• Various industry studies indicate escalating costs for worker replacement, loss of production, re-recruitment/interviewing, and training – the learning curve can cost you significant money.

DOWNLOAD THE EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND SCREENING FAQs FREE EBOOK HERE

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WEBINAR RECORDING | “Remote Work & Other Trends Shaping Workplace Cultures”

CRI Group™ hosted a free webinar on August 31st. Our intention was to be able to provide resources on workplace cultures in organisations around the globe that will aid them in expansion and an positive employee environment. Take advantage of this free recording on employee wellness, remote work, pre-employment screening and workplace cultures.

WATCH NOW

The live training session was conducted by senior certified HR professional and member of CRI’s expert team, Nilofar A. Gardezi​. 

Improving Workplace Cultures

Workplace trends are dictating major shifts and becoming new norms in the workplace. These trends are expected to grow in the coming years. Examples of this include hybrid work, employee wellness, and ongoing education. Adapting to workplace trends will help employers improve company culture, boost employee retention and defeat workplace complacency. This will help companies stay competitive within the industry and remain relevant in the wider world.

With over nine years of experience in HR, Nilofar A. Gardezi​ is a HRBP & an Associate Director with the CRI Group™. She is a gold-certified Trainer from DWE with a Certification in Psychology and serves as a Certified Professional Counsellor. She has worked with renowned organisations like Attock Group, British Council and Standard Chartered Bank.

WATCH NOW

Struggling with Employee Screening?

Get answers to frequently asked questions about background checks / screening cost,  guidelines, check references etc. This eBook is a compilation of all of the background screening related questions you ever needed answers to:

• Does a candidate have to give consent to process a background check / screening?
• How long does it take to conduct a background check?
• When should I conduct pre-employment checks?
• How often should I screen employees?
• How to collect references and what to ask?
• How much does it cost to conduct a background checks?
• What is he difference between employment history verification and employment reference?
• How do I check on entitlement to work?
• How to conduct identity checks?
• What will a financial regulatory check show?
• Is it possible to identify conflict of interest during checks?
• What is a bankruptcy check?
• What about directorships and shareholding search?
• Can I have access to a criminal watch list?
• Anti-money laundering check?
• Can we conduct FACIS (fraud and abuse control information system) searches?
• … and MORE!

Taken as a whole, is the perfect primer for any HR professional, business leader and companies looking to avoid employee background screening risks. It provides the tools and knowledge needed to make the right decisions.

Download your “Employee Background Screening FAQ” FREE ebook now!

The CRI Group™ has been safeguarding businesses from fraud, bribery and corruption since 1990. We are a global company based in London, United Kingdom. Our experts and resources are located in key regional marketplaces. These are across the Asia Pacific, South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, North and South America. Our global team can support your organisation anywhere in the world. ​For more details about the CRI Group™ or to schedule a meeting with us, click here.

​

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IPR Infringement Report Says IP Infringement is Getting Worse!

Intellectual property can be a business’s most valuable asset. So when outside parties threaten to steal your ideas, copy your products or disrupt your marketing channels, corrective action on your part can become tedious, time-consuming and expensive. Also, because of the high value associated with Intellectual Property Right (IPR), infringement of those rights is a lucrative criminal activity, which generates significant costs to the rights owners and to the economy in general. In fact around 12,000 IP infringement cases are filed each year.

Now, a study conducted by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) in partnership with the European Patent Office (EPO) found that the total contribution of IPR-intensive industries to the EU economy accounts for approximately 42% of GDP (€5.7 trillion) and 28% of employment plus another 10% in indirect employment effects in non-IPR intensive sectors. Those sectors also generate a trade surplus of approximately €96 billion with the rest of the world and pay their workers 46% higher salaries than other sectors.

The economic Value of IPRs

This IP infringement report brings together the findings of the research carried out in recent years by the EUIPO, through the European Observatory on the Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights, on the extent, scope and economic consequences of IPR infringement in the EU. Evidence on the economic value of IPRs in the EU economy, the extent to which this value is exploited, the infringement mechanisms used to capture that value and the actions being taken in response to these challenges are outlined and discussed in the report as well.

According to a study carried out by EUIPO and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 2019, estimates of IPR infringement in international trade in 2016 could reach as much as 3.3% of world trade. Up to 6.8% of EU imports, or €121 billion per year, consist of fake goods. Both sets of figures are significantly higher than those found in study by the two organisations published in 2016, indicating that the problem has grown even more serious in recent years.

Annual Losses of €92 Billion During 2012-16 Due to Counterfeiting

In a series of sectorial studies, the EUIPO fears it has lost sales in 11 sectors in the EU, as a result of counterfeiting. These losses have occurred directly in the industries being analysed and across their associated supply chains and totalled more than €92 billion per year during 2012-16.

Abundant value, lenient sentences and high returns on investment together make it attractive for criminal gangs to engage in counterfeiting activities. The modus operandi of such gangs is becoming increasingly complex as technology and distribution channels evolve, hand in hand with the breadth of products being counterfeited.

How Legitimate Brands Can Suffer Due to Advertising!

The business models adopted by counterfeiters make significant use of the internet to distribute their products and to promote the distribution and consumption of illegal digital content. Internet sites selling counterfeit goods benefit from additional advertising revenues from both “high risk” ads (adult, gaming, and malware) and, paradoxically, also from legitimate brands, which then suffer in two ways from advertising on such sites: damage to their own brand and provision of credibility to the hosting website.

In addition to analysing the supply of counterfeit goods and pirated content, the EUIPO has also studied the demand side, that is, the attitudes of EU citizens towards IPR and their willingness to consume IPR-infringing goods and services. The incentives for consumers to purchase counterfeit goods and to access copyright-protected content illegally include lower prices, easy accessibility and a low degree of social stigma associated with such activities.
In response to these developments the EUIPO, together with public and private partners, is undertaking and supporting a number of actions to meet these challenges.

The Economic and Social Impact of IPR Infringements

The actions by the EUIPO range from providing rights owners with information on the changing infringement landscape and working with Europol on wider responses to IP crime. It also included participating in the funding of a specialised IP crime unit within Europol, supporting the European Commission’s efforts to address the supply of counterfeit goods in third countries and to help Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) protect their IPRs. This was done by providing citizens with information on the availability of legally accessible digital content and on the economic and social impact of purchasing counterfeit goods or accessing digital content illegally.

VIEW IPR REPORT

How the CRI Group™ Can Help You Tackle IPR Infringement

CRI Group’s Intellectual Property Investigations team helps companies identify threats to IP and confidential information internally and throughout their supply chain, develop the appropriate mitigation strategies and investigate suspected infringements.

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For further information on IPR infringement or to book a meeting with our experts, click here.

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Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights

Suppose you suspect that your intellectual property (IP) rights have been infringed. In that case, CRI Group’s Intellectual Property Investigations team helps companies identify threats to IP and confidential information internally and throughout their supply chain, develop the appropriate mitigation strategies and investigate suspected infringements. Our experts can track intrusions, data manipulation and a range of “digital footprints.” With our findings you can take action. 

Patent Infringement 

If someone uses your product or invention protected by a patent without authorization, you to prove it so you can defend your right and take action. Our investigative capabilities include gathering intelligence on the dark web and in the field, social network analysis, sample acquisition and testing.

CRI Group’s IP experts understand the intricacies and importance of protecting your intellectual property. CRI® Group can stay a step ahead of the wrongdoers who want to benefit from your IP investment by working alongside a global network of anti-counterfeit investigators, consultants, advisors, and industry groups.

Our experts can track intrusions, data manipulation and a range of “digital footprints.” Additionally, we have strong working relationships with regulators, police forces and customs and enforcement agencies worldwide. Our investigations frequently form the basis of litigation or criminal prosecutions. 

Imitation of a Branded Good – Counterfeit Products

If someone is selling a good bearing your trademark without your authorization, you are the victim of counterfeiting. If you suspect that certain goods infringe your IP rights, you outsource IP investigations services.

Our investigative capabilities include gathering intelligence on the dark web and in the field, social network analysis, sample acquisition and testing. CRI Group’s IP experts understand the intricacies and importance of protecting your intellectual property. CRI Group™ can stay a step ahead of the wrongdoers who want to benefit from your IP investment by working alongside a global network of anti-counterfeit investigators, consultants, advisors, and industry groups.

Our experts can track intrusions, data manipulation and a range of “digital footprints.” Additionally, we have strong working relationships with regulators, police forces and customs and enforcement agencies worldwide. Our investigations frequently form the basis of litigation or criminal prosecutions. 

IF YOU SUSPECT OF COUNTERFITING LET US KNOW NOW

To protect your products against counterfeiting, register with the Enforcement Database of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), which puts you in direct communication with the relevant authorities. If you are an EU company and want to report a counterfeit in a country outside the EU, you can use the Anti-Counterfeiting Rapid Intelligence System (ACRIS).

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Infringement of Trade Secrets

To qualify as a trade secret, the information must:

• Be known only to a limited group of persons, 
• Be commercially valuable because it is secret, and
• Be subject to reasonable steps taken by the rightful holder of the information to keep it secret, including the use of confidentiality agreements for business partners and employees.

The unauthorised acquisition, use or disclosure of such secret information in a manner contrary to honest commercial practices by others is regarded as an unfair practice and a violation of trade secret protection.

As an integral member of the ICC Counterfeiting Intelligence Bureau, CRI Group™ is certified to advise and assist organisations with intellectual property investigations involving grey market and product counterfeiting crimes.

CRI® Group investigators are specially trained to protect the brand equity and customer loyalty you’ve built by providing professional assistance in many areas, including Trade Secret Breaches.

In case of infringement of trade secrets, you can initiate a legal proceeding before a court. The outcome might be a court order prohibiting the infringer from using or further disclosing the trade secret and/or monetary compensation.

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Dispute Over Domain Names

If you find out that someone has deceivingly registered a domain name whose IP rights belong to you, such as:

• for one or more top-level extensions (like .eu, or .com.)
• a trade mark
• a trading name

If this person tries to sell you such a domain, you are a victim of cybersquatting. In domain name dispute cases, you can either go to court or make good use of non-judicial remedies, including ICANN alternative proceedings. ​

2022 Key Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights Cases to Watch

IP practitioners are eagerly watching the court dockets for several high-impact cases related to IP issues (copyright, government liability and ethics) likely to be decided in the second half of 2022.

These decisions are expected to guide several IP law areas, including fair use of copyrights, government contractor defences, patent-eligible inventions, and the enablement requirement. 

Infringement of Protected Geographical Indications

If your product protected by geographical indication has been counterfeited or there have been other infringements of geographical indication, you should contact the competent national authority.

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The Cost of Infringement of Your Intellectual Property Rights

Counterfeiting threatens the fabric of national economies, endangers safety and frequently kills. It devalues corporate reputations, hinders investment, funds terrorism, and costs hundreds of thousands of people their livelihood annually. (ICC) Our IP Investigations include 1) Trademark Investigations; 2) Intellectual Property Acquisition Services; 3) Patent Investigations; 4) Brand, Media and Internet Monitoring Services; 5) Anti-Counterfeiting Programs; 6) Brand Integrity Programs; 7) Copyright Abuse Investigations; 8) Cyber Surveillance; and 9) Litigation Support.

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Take action against the infringement of your intellectual property rights now!

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Background Investigations: One-on-one interview with Zafar Anjum

Background Investigations: One-on-one Interview with Zafar Anjum

Having dedicated his career to a background investigation, fraud prevention, protective integrity, security and compliance, Zafar Anjum is a distinguished and highly respected professional in his field. As Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Corporate Research and Investigations Limited (CRI Group™), he uses his extensive knowledge and expertise in creating stable and secure networks across challenging global markets. For organisations needing comprehensive project management, security, safeguard testing, background investigations and real-time compliance applications, Anjum is the assurance expert of choice for industry professionals.

Q: To what extent have you seen an increase in corporate fraud in recent years? What are some of the common themes and underlying causes?

Anjum: Fraud always seems to be increasing. No matter how sophisticated our attempts to prevent it become, perpetrators are always adapting with new methods. According to the 2020 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Report to the nations, asset misappropriation is the leading type of occupational fraud. It makes up 86% of fraud cases and causes a median loss of $100,000. On the other spectrum, financial statement fraud schemes are the least common (10% of cases) but are the most costly, causing a median loss of $954,000. A typical fraud case can last 14 months before detection and cause a loss of $8,300 per month – a whopping 5% of an organisations revenue is lost to fraud each year. There are various factors at play here, but it starts with ‘tone at the top’. Basically, corporate culture often sets the tone for how strict or lax an organisation prevents or detects fraud. Combine a lax approach with a country or jurisdiction where corruption is still prevalent, even considered ‘business as usual, and there will likely be a fraud.

Q: Could you outline the benefits of using background investigations to reduce potential fraud? Under what circumstances is it prudent to undertake a background investigation?

Anjum: It should be a priority to conduct thorough background investigations when engaging in a merger or acquisition, an initial public offering (IPO), engaging suppliers, contractors or new clients – your client relationships can affect your organisation’s reputation and your ability – to name a few situations. This can help you avoid becoming entangled with third parties that have hidden fraud and other legal issues. It will also make you aware of a potential partner who has credit risk, has claimed bankruptcy or is faced with debtor filings, for example. In one case, a company was seeking to engage a new supplier for medical supplies and equipment. A background investigation revealed that the warehouse’s physical location – claimed by this ‘supplier’ did not exist. The company’s principal had previously been charged with a ‘criminal breach of trust’. Three other civil damages claims against the principal were discovered, with millions claimed in liabilities.

Q: What are some of the best practice approaches to conducting a background investigation? 

Anjum: One of the most important aspects of thorough background investigations is having a ‘boots on the ground approach. Online database searches can only take you so far. When conducting due diligence on entities or individuals, red flags that pop up often warrant further checking before they can be truly weighed as part of the decision process. For example, if you are considering partnering with another company and providing information for their physical location, do you have agents who can visit that location to make sure it is legitimate? Investigations sometimes discover that purported ‘headquarters’ is actually an abandoned home or vacant lot. Also, if certain credentials are claimed, you need to make phone calls or possibly a visit to the school or accrediting bodies to verify them. These are the important details that help you with facts that help guide your decisions.

EFFECTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT THROUGH BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS. FIND OUT HERE

Q: What kinds of legal or regulatory issues might complicate a background investigation?

Anjum: Privacy laws are probably the most important issue, and they need to be carefully understood and followed for every jurisdiction. In the UK, for example, the pandemic has created new data privacy issues, but prudent organisations are constantly evaluating their data protection strategies under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). When it comes to background investigations, similar privacy considerations apply. You might want to check an individuals’ financial or credit history – relevant information if they own a business you seek to partner with or acquire, or if you are considering them for a high-level position at your organisation. Accessing such information is permitted in some jurisdictions and restricted by law in others. The last thing you want is to end up in court for violating someone’s privacy. It is best to engage a professional due diligence background screening firm. They will be trained and up-to-date on the laws governing your background investigations, plus they will have access to resources that most companies do not have.

Q: To what extent are background investigations more challenging in a cross-border or multi-jurisdictional context? How can these additional challenges be overcome or avoided?

Anjum: This goes back to the importance of having investigators in various locations, your ‘boots on the ground’, in your approach to due diligence. The world is much smaller these days as organisations seek to expand across international borders. And the COVID-19 is teaching leaders invaluable lessons in business efficiencies and future strategy. This can lead to obvious challenges – both following the laws and regulations in various jurisdictions and overcoming language and cultural barriers. That is why it is important to have access to locally-based agents – including certified fraud examiners and similarly credentialed professionals – to help with your checks, whether investigating a potential third-party partner or an individual being considered for employment. Another advantage is to have a set, written policy and process for conducting background investigations that you can reference and rely upon when undertaking key business decisions. In this way, your organisation is less susceptible to someone convincing you to bypass proper due diligence simply because it might seem logistically difficult to conduct an overseas investigation.

MITIGATE EMPLOYEE RISK BEFORE & AFTER HIRE? LEARN MORE HERE

Q: Once the background investigation results are collated, what are the key points to analysing?

Anjum: If red flags are uncovered, the best way to further investigate is to understand discrepancies. For example, suppose you are conducting background screening on a potential employee, and something comes up in their criminal record, rather than eliminating them from consideration. In that case, you should ensure that there was no error in your background check, investigate the discrepancy, gather all relevant information, and ask the person to explain what you found and why they did not disclose it. They might have an explanation that affects your decision process. In other words, do not overlook potential talent. According to Nacro, more than 11 million people in the UK have a criminal record – that’s 1 in 3 men – however, just over half of these had been convicted on only one occasion, and 85% were convicted before they were 30 years old. Not all of those have a prison record, however. Most convictions are for motoring offences, such as speeding or unpaid tickets.

Q: What essential advice would you offer to companies on developing internal policies and processes to combat fraud? should intensive background investigations form part of their standard procedures?

Anjum: Intensive background investigations should be a part of an organisation’s standard procedures. It should be part of a greater risk management plan, be set forth as written policy that owners and directors approve, and be reviewed and understood by management and other relevant personnel. Engage risk management professionals when developing your policies and procedures. They can help tailor a plan based o your organisation. Key questions to address should include; who will implement the plan, how an investigation is conducted, who evaluates and reports the results, etc. Sometimes organisations put forth a thorough, excellent programme for background investigations and then, six months or a year later, nobody is following it. The key to success is following through with it and ensuring your entire organisation understands the process and why it is so important. The security of your company depends on effective risk management.

The security of your company depends on effective risk management

Background investigations are critical to any company’s success because working with qualified, honest and hard-working employees and other businesses is integral to thriving in the business community. What you don’t know can hurt you, and the simple act of one bad decision can result in an unprecedented loss for your company. 

From vendor and third-party screening to employment screening, CRI Group™ recommends background investigations as critical proactive measures to help keep your business safe. An effective background screening investigation will help screen for bad apples that can cause havoc down the road. Because we maintain a diverse talent base comprised of multilingual and multi-cultural professionals, CRI™ can traverse obstacles that often impede international background investigations. That’s why we are frequently contracted by our competitors to conduct background investigations in geographic regions not serviced or accessible by larger investigative firms. 

Meet our CEO

Zafar I. Anjum is Group Chief Executive Officer of CRI Group™ (www.crigroup.com), a global supplier of investigative, forensic accounting, business due to diligence and employee background screening services for some of the world’s leading businesses organisations.  Headquartered in London (with a significant presence throughout the region) and licensed by the Dubai International Financial Centre-DIFC, the Qatar Financial Center-QFC, and the Abu Dhabi Global Market-ADGM, CRI Group safeguards businesses by establishing the legal compliance, financial viability, and integrity levels of outside partners, suppliers and customers seeking to affiliate with your business. CRI Group maintains offices in UAE, Pakistan, Qatar, Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, China, the USA, and the United Kingdom.

Contact CRI Group™ to learn more about its 3PRM-Certified™ third-party risk management strategy program and discover an effective and proactive approach to mitigating the risks associated with corruption, bribery, financial crimes and other dangerous risks posed by third-party partnerships.

CONTACT INFORMATION

37th Floor, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AA United Kingdom  e: zanjum@crigroup.com | LinkedIn | Schedule a meeting | t: +44 207 8681415 | m: +44 7588 454959

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What is Continuous Background Screening?

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What is BS7858 Standard? And Why it is Important?

What is BS 7858 Standard?

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has recently revised the British Standard for Security Screening of Security Personnel (BS7858:2004). The new code of practice BS7858:2019 came into effect at the end of September 2020, substituting the revoked BS7858:2012 revised standard, which was rescinded on the 31^st  March 2020. The BS7858 standard has become progressively more crucial when it comes to the protection of individuals, goods & services, estate, and personal data. The BS7858 safeguards such elements by guaranteeing that the veracity of the person authorized to access such sensitive data is certified and retains as such.

There is a lot of misrepresentation circulating regarding the changes to BS7858 Standard which CRI Group, as the only company in the Middle East and Asian region with an implemented BS 7858:2019 standard and BS 102000:2018 code of practice for investigative services and ISO27001 (Information Security Management System) certification, want to help clean up.

Why is the standard so important? 

It is no secret that confidence is key when it comes to the mass of decision ruling. Instilling confidence in its personnel is critical for all organizations and their triumph, particularly when said personnel oversees susceptible individuals, valuable resources or data protection. Organisations have to be able to guarantee that their security personnel have been subordinate to the best meticulous screening process. This ensures pleased clients, as well as pleased personnel as the foundation to a fortunate and reliable organization, begins from within. The BS7585 aids organizations to avoid scandals such as:

• British Airways (BA): fined £20 million by the UK’s data protection authority over data security failings which permitted unauthorized access to be acquired to private data and payment card information concerning more than 400,000 of its consumers
• Sina Weibo: when hackers stole the private data of 172 million users – this included real names, site usernames, gender, location, and phone numbers. The data was sold on the dark web for a mere  ¥1,799 ($250) but caused considerable harm, distress and chaos to the daily lives of Weibo’s users.
• Canva: the Australian graphic design tool suffered an attack that exposed 137 million users email addresses, usernames, names, cities of residence. The hackers also managed to view, but not steal, files with a partial credit card and payment data.

The revised BS7858 has been made clear that the responsibility and accountability for the security and effectiveness of the vetting process rest with the organization itself and leading management. The BS7858:2019 connects with the move we have seen worldwide to corporate social responsibility and compliance and follows that trend. Other occurrences of the movement consist of instances such as the GDPR (April 2016) and the FCA (Dec 2020) which both expect leading management to be practical in their approach to compliance.

As a significant volume of data requires authentication in a screening process, several organizations may find executing an employee screening and vetting process to be highly complex. Additionally, the degree of evaluation of the applicant’s provisional data must be carried out effectively as well as promptly and include specific checks, such as credit checks or checks against the Financial Services Register.

BSI brought the BS7858 Standard to 2021 with the inclusion of:

Right to Work checks in line with Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) identity requirements:

In antithesis to common acceptance, the BS7858-compliant vetting checks do not need to include DBS checks. This is due to the fact that the Security Industry Authority (SIA) oversees these criminal record checks as part of an individual’s registration process. Nevertheless, they do continue to be a measure of best practice, and the revised Standard firmly contends in its favour. See 7.3.2 (c) and 7.7. (j) in the 7858 Standard. Organizations can also refer to the SIA’s ‘Get Licensed’ handbook which asserts that when an operative is in connection with children or susceptible adults, the Standard or an alternate heightened degree of admission should be deemed essential.

Global watchlist checks during the application process

7.4 (c) of the BS7858 Standard comprises the compulsory requirement to examine a variety of international watchlists, sanctions and fraud databases. Hitherto to this, the Standard simply asked the examining of the HMG sanctions list.

Social media checks as an advised best practice for pre-and post-employment

Personnel social media posts could generate problems for organisations that are operational in protected and regulated conditions; BSI has updated the BS7858 Standard to consider this matter. The BS7858:2019 Standard urges organisations to complete social media screening pre and post-employment.

Searching for supplementary data utilizing best practice social media and additional open-source internet checks can support your organisation with superior perceptions and decrease your employee risk.

For extra assistance on social media and further knowledge on the perils of social media within your organisation, please see our article and free playbook on “Risks of Cybercrime & Social Media“. A complete Guide on How to Protect Your Organisation and Team!

Other significant changes of the BS7858 Standard:

• Removal of character references
• Approval to passing on pre-employment screening records from vocation to vocation.
• Conditional Offer: Formerly, there were two steps an employer was obliged to follow before making an offer of conditional employment; fulfilling the stipulated preliminary checks and adequately fulfilling limited screening on the subject. The new standard initiated the third element on top of the other two conditions – to commence a risk review and confirm that “the degree of risk in the envisioned employment has been evaluated and is deemed to be acceptable and documented” and consequently, the organization is happy to extend the offer based on their evaluation and the candidate’s risk profile.
• Preservation of candidates’ background screening records during their employment. Ineffective applicants records can be retained for 12 months while for ex-employees, particular records can be kept for an additional seven years after the employment ended.
• All groups involved in carrying out BS7858 vetting should be prepared for envisioned obligations.

It is clear to see that the BS7858 standard is crucial for employment in not only the security region but each region of employment; pre-employment screening expending the updated BS7858 standards promises that each member of the public, from manual laborer’s to office workers, can maintain life in a safe environment.

If the new standard still feels a little daunting to you, why not consider booking a free 30-minute consultation with one of our experts here at CRI Group? Our specialists have years of experience and are qualified to offer your organization personalized guidance to fit your professional requirements. Don’t hesitate, get in touch today and stay ahead of the vetting rules and regulations.

Get in Touch

Author bio

Zafar I. Anjum, is Group CEO of CRI Group (www.crigroup.com), a global supplier of investigative, forensic accounting, integrity due diligence and employee background screening services for some of the world’s leading business organizations. Headquartered in London, with offices in UAE, Pakistan, Qatar, Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, China and USA, CRI is licensed by the Dubai International Financial Centre-DIFC, the Qatar Financial Center-QFC, and the Abu Dhabi Global Market-ADGM.

Contact Details

Zafar Anjum, MSc, MS, LLM, CFE, CII, MABI, MICA, Int. Dip. (Fin. Crime), Int. Dip. (GRC)
CRI Group Chief Executive Officer
37th Floor, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AA, United Kingdom
t: +44 207 8681415 | m: +44 7588 454959 | e: zanjum@crigroup.com

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WEBINAR | Compliance and Adequate Due Diligence for Third-Party Risk Managements

Building a Culture of Compliance and Trust Through ISO 37301:2021 CMS: Compliance adequate Due Diligence for Third-Party Risk Management – corporate compliance program

Free Webinar | 4 August 2022 | 2 pm – 3 pm UAE Time | in collaboration with ABAC™

CRI Group™ is hosting a free webinar on August 4th in collaboration with sister brand the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Center of Excellence. Our intention is to be able to provide resources on corporate compliance and due diligence to organizations around the globe that will aid them in expansion and an ethical working environment. Take advantage of this free webinar on compliance and adequate due diligence for Third-Party Risk Management.

Compliance in the Workplace

The compliance standard directs an organization to establish ideals and ethics. It involves the organization to illustrate those ideals and ethics adequately in a manner in which team members can recognise them and submit to them. A compliance standard necessitates that an organization train team members on ideals and ethics and demands that the organization hold team members liable for their conflicts and behaviors. In other words, compliance helps to define the force in the wake of the organization and its motivational efforts. However, many authoritative figures view compliance as intrinsically fundamentalist as they assume that the objective of compliance is to rein in conduct that couldn’t be further than the truth. Compliance provides a compelling instrument of prolonged adjustment. If everyday behavior branches from education and codes of conduct, and codes of conduct branch from ethics, expression, and alteration; over time, these said principles can intensely influence administrative behavior. Standards can be deemed as a leveraging point, and in the long run, compliance centers on the driving principles of an organization therefore, it is incredibly important to implement them into your corporate culture which is what we intend on discussing in our webinar.

Discussion points

• Most individuals are vaguely aware of what fraud prevention entails but many cannot fully comprehend how intensive and impactful a proper fraud prevention strategy can be. Our speaker will be looking at the following points.
• What does compliance mean?
• Compliance obligations
• Compliance related areas
• What is ISO 37301:2021 Compliance Management Systems
• Common elements of the framework
• Compliance risk assessment
• The process: Top management
• Questions to ask when developing a compliance management policy
• The involvement of third parties
• The results: the pay-off of good governance
• The results: long-lasting benefits integration with ISO 37001
• Anti-Bribery Management System, ISO 37000:2021 Governance of organizations, and ISO 37002:2021 Whistleblowing Management systems  

Meet our speaker, Samia El Kadiri

Consultant, Author & Trainer, 6σGB |IRCA- QMS Lead Auditor | TOT | Auditor | Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Center of Excellence

She brings in over eight years of progressive experience working in private and government owned entities in compliance, management, quality assurance and excellence functions. Possess keen understanding, oversight and reporting mechanisms on Financial Crimes – Anti-Money Laundering, UAE Central Bank regulations, Dubai and UAE federal government mandates. She Developed and delivered various number of workshops and awareness sessions to leaders and decision makers on “Good Corporate Governance Practices”, “Development of Strategic Plan and Effective Policies” and “Financial Ethics” (AML&CFT according to local Guidelines). She authored reports and research papers on Compliance and the evolution of CG in the MENA region. She participated in the ESG Index; MENA wide Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Index in cooperation with Standard & Poor’s with the support of the International Finance Corporation (IFC). She is a Consultant at DIFC – Hawkamah Institute for Corporate Governance charged with leading entities consultancy and advisory engagements in identifying the relevant controls, processes and frameworks and recommend areas of improvements. She works closely with clients in assessment and development, advisory and succession planning across multiple industries (Dubai and Federal Government entities, Healthcare, Financial institutions including Banks, and Real Estate) and functional topics (Ethics, Strategic excellence, ESG, Clinical Governance, Regulatory Compliance, Audit & Risk , Policies & Procedures…etc.). Prior to joining Hawkamah she was the Regulatory Compliance Officer and Chief Editor of Compliance newsletter at Wall Street Exchange, a member of Emirates Post Group where she developed systems, policies and procedures for compliance of relevant UAE laws. Prior to that she worked with the American Clinics for Psychiatry and Neurology where she focused on health care compliance of Dubai Healthcare Authority’s mandates. Prior to ACPN she worked at Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai where she focused on government excellence, quality management, and customer happiness. She is Graduated with a BSC in Economics. She is a Certified Train the Trainer – Institute of Leadership and Management (UK), In addition to other accreditations related to Anti-Money Laundry (AML) and Counter Financing Crimes. She is fluent in English, Arabic and French.

Who should attend?

By Job Title:

• Investigation Director/Manager
• Internal Audit Director/Manager
• Internal Control Director/Manager
• Chief Compliance/Legal /Ethics/Financial/Risk Officer
• Compliance & Ethics Director/Manager
• General Counsel/Legal Director
• Legal Manager /Legal Counsel
• BD & Commercial Director/Manager
• Purchasing Director/Manager
• …

From Accounting Firms & Consulting:

• Managing Director
• Executive Director
• Partner
• Associate Attorney & Attorney
• …

Why ISO?

Issued in April 2021, the ISO 37301 framework offers a certifiable global benchmark for compliance systems and explains in detail how to construct a compliance management system to comply with international official standards and regulations. This standard is also acknowledged to indicate compliance with social and ethical principles across the globe. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental body that has developed and implemented the ISO 37301. Corporate compliance continues to be one of the utmost risk interests for management – to which the key solution in preserving integrity and confidence within an organization and third-party representatives is to implement a robust compliance program. The ISO 37301 further urges organizations to place emphasis on the methodical implementation of an organization-wide compliance system as a means of efficiency and compliance understanding the workplace. Like other ISO standards for management systems, such as the ISO 37001 standard for anti-bribery management systems, the ISO 37301 pulls on the founded ISO value of “Plan-Do-Check-Act” (PDCA) – a standard which necessitates those certified organizations to operate within an unremitting development progression sequence.

About CRI Group™?

Based in London, United Kingdom, CRI™ is a global company with experts and resources located in key regional marketplaces across the Asia Pacific, South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, North and South America. We have experts’ speakers who know the industry inside out and have worked in the field for years and are dedicated to our mission of safeguarding the corporate world by detecting and exposing those elements that can cause irreparable harm to an organization while standing up against the outside forces, who through corruption, collusion, coercion, and fraud, can cause financial, organizational, reputational, and legal harm to our global clients. CRI Group™ also holds BS 102000:2018 and BS 7858:2019 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle. Our webinars, resources and other events are always designed with our clients in mind. Expect to be provided detailed insights and expert opinions to all your questions and queries regarding compliance adequate due diligence for third-party risk management, corporate compliance program and what it means for your organization. CRI Group™ has safeguarded businesses from any risks, providing investigations (i.e. insurance fraud), employee background screening, investigative due diligence, business intelligence, third-party risk management, forensic accounting, compliance and other professional investigative research services. In 2016, CRI Group™ launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body established for ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems, ISO 37301 Compliance Management Systems and ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management, providing training and certification. ABAC™ operates through its global network of certified ethics and compliance professionals, qualified auditors and other certified professionals.

CRI Group™ invites you to schedule a quick appointment with us to discuss in more detail how our risk management solutions can help you and your organization.

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What is Fraud Investigation?

Fraud is one of the biggest and most damaging risks businesses face. The headlines are full of organisations both in the private and public sectors affected by fraud, irregularity or other wrongdoing – either as a victim or accused. Statistics show that the threat of Corporate Fraud increases markedly in a down economy. And when such fraud occurs, it takes an average of 18 months to detect. In that timeframe, the damage to your business can be both widespread and irreversible. The hidden costs related to corporate fraud drains an estimated five per cent of revenue from corporations worldwide.

Fraud Risk Assessment and Fraud Risk Management: A Proactive Approach to Prevention and Detection

Historically, most major corporate fraud cases have been perpetrated by senior management who can circumvent internal controls and often work in collusion with other employees. By establishing a strong workplace environment that promotes ethical behaviour, deters wrongdoing and encourages all employees to communicate any known or suspected activity to the proper authority, you would be taking a proactive approach to prevention and detection.

What is the Fraud Investigation Process?

When fraud is suspected within the organisation, CRI Group’s experienced fraud analysts use proven techniques to aggressively investigate the case, collect evidence and determine the facts. Once the type of fraud is determined, a process of gathering all evidence possible to bulk out the investigation case starts. Evidence can be collected through a variety of means and methods.

These methods include conducting detailed asset checks, background verifications, surveillance checks and stylised forms of investigation and analysis; including employee investigations and investigations of an entire business. Subsequently, the victims and potential fraudsters will be interviewed.  Our analysts work with your management, internal security and legal teams to uncover the truth and bring proper closure to the case.

Are You Auditing Your Fraud Prevention Program Regularly?

• Review and assessment of your current fraud risk management program, including policies, procedures, controls, reporting functions, responsibilities assignment and investigative requirements to identify the organisation’s susceptibility to fraud and vulnerability by the department.
• Developing fraud prevention measures and implementing Anti-fraud controls.
• Defining detection methods that encompass internal audits, suspicious transaction reporting, whistle-blower strategies, and program enforcement.
• Re-engineering targeted job functions or internal controls to mesh with fraud risk management program refinements.

Take Extra Precaution with Fraud and White-Collar Crime Investigations

Fraud and white-collar crime investigations and risk consulting services have helped financial institutions, corporations, partnerships, and individuals worldwide minimise fraud and thereby satisfy capital markets, reduce legal costs, and maintain their reputation and brand equity. CRI Group’s global team of Certified Fraud Examiners are trained in virtually every aspect of corporate fraud, including:

• Money Laundering
• Intellectual Property Crimes
• Embezzlement
• Check & Credit Card Fraud
• Online Cybercrime
• Accounting Fraud
• Cash Theft
• Asset Misappropriation
• Bribery
• Corruption
• Contract & Procurement Fraud
• Payroll Fraud

CRI Group™ develops preventative measures that have helped organisations worldwide identify a material weakness in internal controls to mitigate collusive activity and reduce the liabilities associated with corporate fraud. Our trained investigators leverage our collective investigative experience, leading technology tools, global reach and credibility with regulators to bring you insights with precision and speed.

Our international team of Certified Fraud Examiners (CFEs) work with companies to analyse and assess fraud prevention measures, develop solid risk management programs, provide training for executives, board, management and staff, establish effective communications strategies for reporting suspicious behaviour, and implement investigation and corrective action policies that meet regulatory and compliance requirements.

CRI Group™ professionals work with your organisation on an unbiased level, strengthening your fraud risk management program by:

• Adhering to the organisation’s written code of conduct
• Reviewing existing fraud risk management programs
• Training employees to properly identify fraud
• Developing internal and external reporting channels
• Identifying senior management, board and employee responsibilities
• Conducting and monitoring the progress of investigations
• Providing thorough reporting of investigative results
• Testifying as expert witnesses, if required

Who is CRI Group™?

Based in London, CRI Group™ works with companies across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific as a one-stop international Risk Management, Employee Background Screening, Business Intelligence, Due Diligence and other professional Investigative Research solutions provider. We have the largest proprietary network of background-screening analysts and investigators across the Middle East and Asia. Our global presence ensures that no matter how international your operations are we have the network needed to provide you with all you need, wherever you happen to be. CRI Group™ also holds BS 102000:2013 and BS 7858:2012 Certifications, is an HRO certified provider and partner with Oracle.

CRI Group™ invites you to schedule a quick appointment with us to discuss in more detail how our risk management solutions can help you and your organisation. 

BOOK A MEETING NOW!

Why CRI Group™?

• CRI™ has one of the largest, most experienced & best-trained integrity due diligence teams in the world.
• We have a flat structure which means that you will have direct access to senior members of staff throughout the due diligence process.
• Our multi-lingual teams have conducted assignments on thousands of subjects in over 80 countries, & we’re committed to maintaining & constantly evolving our global network.
• Our solutions are easily customisable, flexible & we will tailor our scope to address your concerns & risk areas; saving you time & money.
• Our team of more than 50 full-time analysts is spread across Europe, Middle East, Asia, North and South America & is fully equiped with the local knowledge to serve your needs globally.
• Our extensive solutions include due diligence, employee pre & post background screening, business intelligence & compliance, facilitating any decision-making across your business no matter what area or department.

In 2016, CRI Group™ launched the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Center of Excellence – an independent certification body that provides education and certification services for individuals and organisations on a wide range of disciplines and ISO standards, including ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management- Guidelines; ISO 37000:2021 Governance of Organisations; ISO 37002:2021 Whistleblowing Management System; ISO 37301:2021 (formerly ISO 19600) Compliance Management system (CMS); Anti-Money Laundering (AML); and ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management Systems ABMS. ABAC™ offers a complete suite of solutions designed to help organisations mitigate the internal and external risks associated with operating in multi-jurisdiction and multi-cultural environments while assisting in developing frameworks for strategic compliance programs. Contact ABAC™ for more on ISO Certification and training.

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