During an interview, if you suspect fraud, what steps should you take?

• A. Document, question, verify documents, and escalate to supervisor or law enforcement
• B. End the interview and release the traveler
• C. Ignore and continue
• D. Conclude there is no fraud without verification

Answer: (D)

When fraud is suspected during an interview, you must respond in a structured, evidence-based way that involves proper escalation. Start by documenting the concerns and details of what appeared suspicious. Then question the traveler as needed to clarify inconsistencies and gather more information. Verify the documents and information provided—check for discrepancies, cross-check dates or identifiers, and, if needed, confirm with issuing authorities or other reliable sources. Finally, escalate to your supervisor or appropriate law enforcement if fraud is suspected or if the situation requires additional authority or intervention.

This approach is essential because it builds an accurate record, preserves the integrity of the process, and ensures that any potential fraud is handled by the right people with proper authority. End the interview and release the traveler, ignore the concerns, or conclude there is no fraud without verification would bypass essential checks, potentially allow fraudulent activity to proceed, and undermine safety and compliance. Always verify before drawing conclusions and involve the proper channels when fraud is suspected.