Definition of Lapping Scheme
A lapping scheme is a method of accounting fraud where an employee absconds with cash or funds from a receivable account and then uses the funds from subsequent transactions to cover the shortfall, creating an illusion of intact accounts. This fraudulent activity results in continuously shifting or “lapping” of the cash receipts to relay a false financial stability.
Comparison: Lapping Scheme vs Kiting
| Feature | Lapping Scheme | Kiting |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Fraudulently covering stolen cash through subsequent receivables | Taking advantage of the float between banks by moving checks before they’re cashed |
| Purpose | To conceal a cash theft | To exploit bank timing differences for operating cash |
| Method | Shifting receivables payments | Writing checks against accounts with insufficient funds |
| Detection | Forensic audit of accounts receivable aging | Bank reconciliation showing overlapping transactions |
| Legality | Illegal accounting fraud | Often illegal and unethical, can lead to banking fraud charges |
Examples
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Example of Lapping Scheme:
- Employee A steals $1,000 from Customer 1’s payment. Instead of reporting this theft, Employee A uses $1,000 from Customer 2’s payment to cover the theft. This cycle continues, with new payments covering previous thefts.
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Related Terms:
- Fraud: Deliberate deception for personal gain or to damage another individual or entity.
- Forensic Accounting: A specialized area of accounting that involves investigating financial discrepancies and fraud.
Formula to Detect Lapping Schemes
graph TD;
A[Customer Payments] --> B{Was Payment Recorded?};
B -->|No| C[Investigate Further];
B -->|Yes| D{Is Cash Deposit Match?};
D -->|No| E[Forensic Audit Required];
D -->|Yes| F[Continue Monitoring Receivables];
Humorous Insights
“Why don’t accountants play hide and seek? Because good luck hiding when you’ve got accounts receivable to manage!” – Anonymous
Fun Facts
- In practice, lapping needs collusion and manipulation, often leading to serious ramifications including fires in professional careers.
- Forensic accountants can trace these seemingly innocent receivable adjustments back to the initial theft like a detective reveal in a mystery movie!
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a lapping scheme?
- A lapping scheme is an accounting fraud technique involving the systematic covering of stolen cash from receivables by using proceeds from subsequent transactions.
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How can a corporation prevent lapping?
- Regular audits, strict cash management procedures, and segregation of duties are effective ways to mitigate this type of fraud.
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What signs indicate a lapping scheme?
- Increased aging in accounts receivable, missing payments, and discrepancies between recorded transactions and actual cash deposits.
References for Further Engagement
- The Fraud Audit by Oleksandr Lutsko
- Forensic Accounting: A Guide to Financial Fraud Investigation by William S. Hopwood
- Fraud and Fraud Detection on The CPA Journal
Test Your Knowledge: Lapping Scheme Challenge
## What is the main purpose of a lapping scheme?
- [x] To conceal theft or misappropriation of cash
- [ ] To increase receivables faster
- [ ] To improve cash flow management
- [ ] To legitimize accounting errors
> **Explanation:** The primary goal of a lapping scheme is fraudulent concealment of stolen cash.
## Which of the following is a sign of a potential lapping scheme?
- [x] Increased age of accounts receivable
- [ ] Regular cash deposits matching invoices
- [ ] High employee turnover
- [ ] Positive customer feedback
> **Explanation:** An increased age of receivables could indicate manipulation, potentially suggesting a lapping scheme.
## What type of audits are effective in detecting a lapping scheme?
- [ ] Random casual reviews
- [ ] Internal control audits
- [x] Forensic audits
- [ ] Performance evaluations
> **Explanation:** Forensic audits are specifically designed to uncover fraudulent activities like lapping schemes.
## In a lapping scheme, which method is used to cover the theft?
- [ ] Payments from the same transaction
- [ ] Using savings
- [x] Payments from subsequent transactions
- [ ] Adjusting the financial reports
> **Explanation:** In lapping, funds from future transactions are used to cover up the theft from previous transactions.
## How can an organization prevent lapping?
- [ ] Trust management without audits
- [ ] Avoiding checks altogether
- [ ] Allowing all employees to handle cash
- [x] Segregating duties and implementing audits
> **Explanation:** By separating duties and conducting regular audits, organizations can help reduce opportunities for fraud like lapping.
## Is a lapping scheme considered legal?
- [x] No, it is a type of fraud
- [ ] Yes, if it is disclosed
- [ ] Yes, if done in small amounts
- [ ] No, but it's common practice
> **Explanation:** A lapping scheme is illegal and constitutes fraud, which can lead to severe legal consequences.
## What should a company do upon discovering a lapping scheme?
- [x] Initiate an investigation
- [ ] Ignore it and hope it goes away
- [ ] Give the employee a warning
- [ ] Keep it confidential
> **Explanation:** Discovery of a lapping scheme necessitates immediate investigation to mitigate losses and enforce accountability.
## What does forensic accounting primarily focus on?
- [ ] Preparing tax reports
- [x] Investigating financial fraud
- [ ] Reducing expenses
- [ ] Managing inventory
> **Explanation:** Forensic accounting specializes in investigating and resolving cases of financial fraud, like lapping schemes.
## What is a common result of a lapping fraud?
- [x] Increased suspicion of financial misconduct
- [ ] Better employee morale
- [ ] Increased company revenue
- [ ] Reduced operational expenses
> **Explanation:** Lapping fraud usually raises red flags and can lead to serious trust issues and financial scrutiny.
## Why should companies regularly audit accounts receivable?
- [ ] To challenge employees further
- [x] To detect potential fraud like lapping schemes
- [ ] To increase workload
- [ ] To accommodate lazy management
> **Explanation:** Regular audits can reveal significant issues, including potential frauds like lapping, before they escalate.
Thank you for enhancing your financial knowledge with a sense of understanding about lapping schemes—because ignorance might be bliss, but awareness keeps your cash flow safe! Remember, when numbers start to look funny, it’s time to grab your magnifying glass! 🕵️♂️💰
