Unleashing the power of whistleblowing in fraud prevention

Written by Elani Vogel | Published on 14 May 2026

When discussions about fraud prevention arise, much of the focus is on technological advancements, robust internal controls, or the role of auditing processes. While these elements are undeniably crucial, they often overshadow the most effective tool an organisation possesses — its people. Elani Vogel, Senior Forensic Manager at Loxton Forensics, emphasises that individuals within an organisation are key activists in uncovering fraud.

A staggering proportion of fraud cases are unveiled not through complex software, but by an observant employee who chooses to speak up. A colleague may spot an unusual transaction, a supplier could question a dubious payment request, or an employee might voice concerns over behaviours that seem to stray from established ethical standards. Yet, organisations frequently underestimate the significance of establishing comprehensive whistleblowing systems, often relegating them to mere compliance checkboxes rather than recognising their critical role in governance.

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Watch David Loxton from Loxton Forensics discuss the critical role whistleblowers play.

Video credit: Newzroom Afrika | Broadcast clip supplied via Novus Group.