The Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential denotes proven expertise in fraud prevention, detection and deterrence. CFEs are trained to identify the warning signs and red flags that indicate evidence of fraud and fraud risk. CFEs around the world help protect the global economy by uncovering fraud and implementing processes to prevent fraud from occurring in the first place.

Setting High Standards for the Anti-Fraud Profession

To become a CFE, an individual must pass a rigorous test on the four major disciplines that comprise the fraud examination body of knowledge:

• Fraud Prevention and Deterrence
• Fraudulent Financial Transactions
• Fraud Investigation
• Legal Elements of Fraud

Learn more about the CFE Exam here.

Prospective CFEs must also meet high professional, educational and ethical standards, as well as continuing professional education requirements. You can learn more about the qualifications required to become a CFE here.

Recognized as the “Gold Standard”

According to the 2008 Compensation Guide for Anti-Fraud Professionals, CFEs earn nearly 22 percent more than their non-certified colleagues.

In a recent study by Robert Half International, a leading specialist in financial staffing, the CFE is listed as one of the most marketable credentials today.

“Bringing staff with the CFE on board enables employers to develop a more skilled workforce. Professionals who earn and maintain this accreditation establish themselves as leaders in their field and gain insight into industry trends and best practices in the process,” said DeLynn Senna, executive director of Finance & Accounting at Robert Half International.

A.E. Feldman, a leading executive search firm, states, “…the CFE has emerged as the gold standard in the area of fraud.”

The CFE credential is recognized in the hiring and promotion policies of leading organizations, including the FBI, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the Forensic Audits and Special Investigations Units of the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Learn more about how to become a CFE here.

CFEs Are Leading the Fight Against Fraud Worldwide

Cynthia Cooper, the CFE who discovered the WorldCom fraud, has shared her inspiring story with professionals and students worldwide, through her book and personal appearances.

Harry Markopolos, the CFE who repeatedly attempted to alert the SEC to the Madoff fraud, testified before Congress on how to improve government regulation and oversight of the capital markets.

Scores of CFEs have written books to share their insight and expertise.

“Sad as it may seem, fraud will always take place wherever there is opportunity. The feeding frenzy of fraud will not abate unless fraud prevention is embraced and instituted at all levels of a company, especially in the executive suite,” explains Martin Beigelman, CFE, Director of Financial Integrity for Microsoft Corporation in his book, Executive Roadmap to Fraud Prevention and Internal Controls: Creating a Culture of Compliance.

You can find more books by CFEs and other anti-fraud experts in the ACFE Bookstore. If you're ready to advance your career and position yourself as a leader in the anti-fraud profession, take the next step and become a CFE.