Albrecht, Albrecht, Albrecht, and Zimbelman (2013) have cleverly compared fraud to fire
where it has been described that “in order for fire to occur, three elements are necessary” (1)
oxygen, (2) fuel, and (3) heat… when all these elements come together, there is fire. If all three
factors are present in the fraud triangle, even if it is in varying degrees, there is high probability
for fraudulent activity (Crumbley, Heitger, and Smith 2013). The three factors are most
commonly noted as pressure, opportunity, and rationalization (Albrecht, Albrecht, Albrecht, and
Zimbelman, 2012. By better understanding each element of the fraud triangle, it assists with the
detection and prevention of fraud. A fraud examiner can assess situations based on these criteria
to better understand the potential fraudster, identify potential vulnerabilities and/or fraudulent
activities, and who may have transacted on the fraud based on opportunity.
Economic motives could include pressures related to finances, vices, work, and other
