Interviewing Strategies & Reporting Methods Flashcards

Which of the following best describes the 'PEACE' model of investigative interviewing?

Answer: A non-accusatory framework focused on information gathering: Preparation, Engage, Account, Closure, Evaluate

The PEACE model is a structured, non-coercive interview framework used widely in law enforcement to gather accurate information without psychological manipulation.

A fraud examiner is drafting a report and includes information that was obtained through an unauthorized computer access. What is the greatest risk this creates?

Answer: The evidence may be excluded and the examiner could face criminal liability

Evidence obtained through unauthorized access violates computer fraud statutes, making it inadmissible and potentially exposing the examiner to criminal charges.

During an interview, a subject invokes their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. What should the examiner do?

Answer: Immediately terminate all questioning and consult legal counsel

When a subject invokes the Fifth Amendment, further questioning must stop and the examiner should consult counsel before proceeding to avoid legal exposure.

What is 'minimization' as used in an admission-seeking interview?

Answer: Downplaying the seriousness of the offense to make admission feel less consequential

Minimization involves downplaying the moral seriousness of the act (e.g., 'Anyone in your situation might have done the same') to lower psychological barriers to confession.

Which type of interview question is most useful when attempting to establish a baseline of a subject's normal behavior early in the interview?

Answer: Behavior-provoking questions on non-threatening topics

Behavior-provoking questions on neutral or non-threatening topics help the examiner observe the subject's baseline verbal and non-verbal patterns before sensitive topics are introduced.

Which of the following is a key element that must be included in a fraud investigation report to ensure it meets professional standards?

Answer: A clear statement of the scope and limitations of the investigation

Documenting the scope and limitations helps readers understand the boundaries of the investigation and protects the examiner from overreach claims.

An examiner interviews a witness who provides information about a fraud scheme but refuses to be named in the report. How should this information be handled?

Answer: Use the information to direct further investigation but note source confidentiality limitations

Confidential source information can guide investigative leads, but the report should note the limitation and the examiner should seek corroborating evidence.