New Deloitte Middle East whitepaper tackles forensic data collection in GCC
When a company's management takes the serious decision to commission a forensic data collection, it usually involves sensitive, stressful and potentially risky circumstances such as fraud, litigation or a regulatory breach. The process involved, from a GCC viewpoint, is explored in a new Deloitte Middle East whitepaper titled 'Forensic Data Collection in the GCC: Ensuring your electronic review doesn't fall at the first hurdle'.
"At this sensitive point in any company's business, it is imperative that the management ensures that they get value for money, the right advice, the right solution and know how to avoid the whole process being undermined from day one," said Rick Barker, director and Head of Forensic Technology at Deloitte Corporate Finance Limited, Middle East.
In the whitepaper, Deloitte identifies three common scenarios that might necessitate a forensic collection in GCC countries. The first is international companies, usually with exposure to the US or UK, who would need to investigate allegations of prohibited activities in their local branch office or subsidiary, which may have to be reported to a regulator. Typically this relates to allegations of bribery of foreign government officials or transactions with sanctioned countries. The second scenario is for companies in arbitration or litigation where there is a need to identify relevant documents or communications for disclosure. The final common collection scenario is where a company's management is investigating staff for misconduct and dishonesty, usually related to fraud or "kick-back".
"When the management of a company deems forensic data collection to be necessary, they expect that the collection and review process will be effective and not expose them to further risk," explains Barker, who advises companies in forensic data collection.
The Deloitte whitepaper also looks at a number of aspects in the collection process, in particular in relation to complying with data laws. The whitepaper notes that it is critical to take into consideration the complete scope of legal constraints of the jurisdiction in which the collection is undertaken, and potentially, any associated jurisdictions. It also answers the question of whether foreign laws can be ignored in the GCC during the process. Tips on how to go about seeking legal advice, as well as important recommendations for the technical aspects of data collection to ensure key evidence is not overlooked are also included.
Getting the forensic data collection right ensures a firm foundation for subsequent reviews, findings and legal action. On this Barker concludes that: "With so much at stake, companies and their legal advisors cannot afford to make assumptions or make avoidable mistakes."
To read the full whitepaper, visit 'Forensic Data Collection in the GCC: Ensuring your electronic review doesn't fall at the first hurdle'.
About Deloitte & Touche (M.E.):
Deloitte & Touche (M.E.) is a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (DTTL) and is the first Arab professional services firm established in the Middle East region with uninterrupted presence for over 87 years. Deloitte is among the region's leading professional services firms, providing audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services through 26 offices in 15 countries with over 2,500 partners, directors and staff. Deloitte has been annually classified as a Tier 1 Tax advisor in the GCC region since 2010 by the International Tax Review World Tax Rankings.
About Deloitte:
Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee, and its network of member firms, each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see www.deloitte.com/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and its member firms.
Deloitte provides audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services to public and private clients spanning multiple industries. With a globally connected network of member firms in more than 150 countries, Deloitte brings world-class capabilities and high-quality service to clients, delivering the insights they need to address their most complex business challenges. Deloitte has in the region of 200,000 professionals, all committed to becoming the standard of excellence.
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Contact:
Nadine El Hassan
Title: Public Relations Regional Leader
Deloitte Middle East
Tel: 00961. 1. 748 444
Email: nelhassan@deloitte.com
© Press Release 2013
