Fraud is More Common Than You Think, Expert Tells Business Leaders

Want to keep your computer system safe from fraud?

"You could if you put it in a room and disconnected power from it," said David Sems, an expert in high-tech security.

Otherwise, you're vulnerable, said Sems, who runs the Strongsville-based Sems & Associates.

His company investigates fraud cases that run the gamut from outside hackers stealing identities to employees who are quietly embezzling from a company. 

Sems was the featured speaker at Strongsville's quarterly Business Networking Breakfast, held Thursday at the Ehrnfelt Recreation Center.

Sems said we're living in "the perfect fraud storm" -- a time when companies are reducing staff and letting employees perform several duties; and when many people are desperate for cash.

He urged business owners to monitor their books closely and look for red flags -- things like employees who never take vacations and workers who are living beyond their means.