They Protect Us from Computer Fraud: Who Protects Us from Them? SafeNet, Inc.: A Case of Fraudulent Financial Reporting

Abstract

ABSTRACT This case focuses on fraudulent financial reporting as related to the tone at the top, primarily the chief operating officer, Carole Argo, of SafeNet, Inc. (SafeNet). This case provides students a real-world example by which to apply basic fraud concepts including the fraud triangle, fraud prevention, and red flags (fraud symptoms). Students analyze SafeNet to identify deficiencies and prevention methods, from the perspective of COSO's (2013) Internal Control—Integrated Framework's internal control objectives, components, and principles. Students also analyze SafeNet's corporate governance structure by comparing SafeNet's Board of Directors and its subcommittees pre- and post-SOX. Students learn of stock options as a form of compensation. However, this case does not focus on the details of accounting for stock options. This case is appropriate for students with the financial accounting principles course background. This case was classroom tested in a basic fraud examination course and an internal auditing course. Students' responses in both courses support the use of the case as a learning tool.