Protect Yourself from Fraud

Week of September 06, 2010

In an effort to prevent fraud and contract corruption in deployed locations, a task force has been put in place to investigate suspected fraud and help servicemembers protect themselves. Servicemembers must stay away from the temptation of committing fraud or taking kickbacks for contracts. "It is always a good idea to have people around when you are making a money transaction with a contractor," said FBI Agent Alethea Harris. "Keep logs of the work you do, with justifications to why you did it." The penalty for military members involved in taking bribes or committing contract fraud or larceny is severe. The maximum penalty for larceny is a dishonorable discharge, reduction to E-1, a fine, forfeiture of all pay and allowances and confinement for ten years, according to Article 121 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

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