FORENSICS AS A TOOL FOR DETECTING FINANCIAL FRAUD

Abstract

This article examines forensic auditing as a modern tool for detecting, preventing, and documenting financial irregularities in business operations. The economic essence of forensic accounting is revealed, along with its distinction from traditional auditing and internal control. Key areas of application in the fight against fraud, corruption, financial statement manipulation, and the misappropriation of assets are identified. International approaches to organizing forensic services are analyzed, including practices for investigating corporate fraud, the use of digital analytics, Big Data analysis methods, compliance tools, and risk-oriented monitoring. Attention is paid to the integration of forensics into the system of corporate governance and internal audit of enterprises in Ukraine. It is argued that the implementation of forensic procedures contributes to minimizing financial losses, increasing the investment attractiveness of business entities, and strengthening the economic security of the state.