Dental Embezzlement Red Flag Assessment

A “red-flag” is an indicator of a circumstance that varies from “normal”. It shows that something is out of the ordinary and may need to be investigated further.

Many embezzlement red-flags are common to all types of business, while others are specific to dentistry.

An red-flag is simply a warning sign that "what you are observing" may be caused by employee dishonesty.

Red-flags are NOT EVIDENCE that theft has occurred.  

You will be asked about these, and other red flags that have been observed in embezzlement cases. 

1. Living beyond their means – 39%

2. Financial difficulties – 34%

3. Control issues, unwillingness to share duties – 19%

4. Unusually close association with vendor – 15%

5. Wheeler dealer attitude – 20%

6. Divorce / family problems 17%

7. Irritability, suspiciousness or defensiveness – 14%

8. Addiction problems – 13%

9. Refusal to take vacations – 7%