You Might Be A Criminal If...

The National Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) compiled a list of behavioral red flags from almost 1,000 case studies. Their research indicates that, to varying degrees, these behaviors were present in the fraud cases that they studied. If you exhibit some or all of these behaviors, you just might be a would-be felon.

Use your best Jeff Foxworthy voice and say each one of these aloud to see if they apply to you. Start by saying, "If you (insert red flag), you might be a criminal."

* are living beyond your means
* have financial difficulties
* have a wheeler-dealer attitude
* have problems with control issues and are unwilling to share duties
* have had a divorce or other family problems
* have an unusually close association with vendor/customer
* are irritable, suspicious or defensive
* have addiction problems
* have past legal problems
* have past employment-related problems
* complain about inadequate pay
* refuse to take vacations
* have excessive pressure from within your organization
* your life circumstances are unstable
* have excessive family or peer pressure for success
* complain about lack your of authority
* have a roommate named Bubba

Ok, now take it easy, that last one was mine. These are red flags only! The ACFE is a great organization - I've had a chance to speak at a few of their events and have met some of their members. They have unbelievable training and resources.

To see the ACFE 2008 Report to the Nation, go here.