What is the primary purpose of conducting interviews during an investigation?

The primary purpose of conducting interviews during an investigation is to gather verbal evidence and insights related to fraud suspicion. Interviews are a crucial tool for investigators as they provide an opportunity to elicit information directly from individuals who may have knowledge or insight about the suspected fraudulent activity. This verbal evidence can include details about observed behavior, access to relevant documents, or statements that may confirm or deny suspicions of fraud.

Conducting interviews also allows investigators to probe deeper into specific areas of concern, clarify facts, and obtain personal experiences that could lead to a better understanding of the situation. The qualitative nature of verbal evidence can significantly enhance the findings of an investigation by providing context that is often not available through documents or other tangible evidence.

While building rapport with employees can facilitate a more open dialogue during interviews, it is not the primary purpose. Additionally, ensuring compliance with regulations is important in the context of investigations, but it is more about framing the investigation within legal parameters rather than the primary goal of data collection during interviews. Discrediting potential whistleblowers contradicts ethical investigation practices and would not be a legitimate purpose for conducting interviews. Thus, the central aim of gathering insights and evidence related to the suspicion of fraud underscores the critical role interviews play in the investigative process.