Preventing and reporting fraud is a shared responsibility
September 21, 2026 – Defence Stories
Estimated read time – 1:56
Fraud can occur anywhere, including within the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). It may involve false claims, misuse of resources, procurement irregularities, or other deceptive activities resulting in personal gain. When fraud goes unchecked, it can cause financial losses, damage public trust, and compromise Defence programs.
The Fraud Risk Management Program (FRMP) (accessible only on the National Defence network) works proactively to detect, prevent, and reduce fraud risks across DND/CAF through data analytics, fraud risk assessments, awareness training, and other outreach efforts. However, preventing fraud relies on more than policies, controls, and technology.
Every Defence Team member plays an important role in protecting public resources and maintaining the trust Canadians place in our institution. Staying alert, recognizing red flags, and reporting concerns are among the most effective ways to prevent fraud.
Why reporting matters
Most cases of fraud are detected because someone notices suspicious activity and reports it. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, nearly half of all fraud cases are uncovered through tips from employees and other individuals.
Many people hesitate to report concerns because they do not believe they have sufficient evidence. However, you do not need evidence that fraud has occurred before reporting a concern. Investigating potential misconduct is the responsibility of the appropriate authorities.
When you report suspicious activity, you help protect public resources, support Defence operations, and promote a culture of honesty and accountability across the Defence Team. Even reporting minor concerns can help uncover broader issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Red flags to watch for
Fraud is not always easy to spot. Be alert for potential warning signs such as:
- Bypassing established procedures or controls
- Unwillingness to share information or responsibilities
- Undisclosed conflicts of interest
- Resistance to oversight or review
- Pressure to rush approvals without proper scrutiny
- Excessive secrecy around decisions or processes
- Unusual access to information or systems
Reporting concerns
If something does not seem right, do not ignore it. Your concerns can be reported through several different channels. These include:
- Your supervisor or chain of command;
- The Internal Disclosure Office (IDO) for protected disclosures of wrongdoing (whistleblowing) through either the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act or Canadian Armed Forces Disclosure Process (PDF, 467 KB) (accessible only on the National Defence network);
- The Canadian Forces Military Police Group to report fraud concerns; or
- The Federal Contracting Fraud Tip Line for anonymously reporting suspected procurement fraud or contract cheating in Canadian federal government contracts.
You are the first line of defence. If you see something suspicious, speak up. Your report could make all the difference.
DND/CAF Fraud Risk Survey
You are invited to complete our anonymous FRMP survey in English or French. Your valuable feedback helps identify higher fraud risk areas and direct attention to where prevention efforts are needed most.