DoD Fraud Risk Management: Enhanced Data Analytics Can Help Manage Fraud Risks

The cost and scope of the Department of Defense’s (DOD) contracting activity—e.g., contracts on major weapon systems, support for military bases, IT and consulting services—makes it inherently susceptible to fraud.

To fight fraud, DOD has a Fraud Reduction Task Force and an antifraud strategy document. DOD’s updated 2023 strategy didn’t include data analytics as a method for managing fraud risk, contrary to leading practices. Data analytics includes techniques such as data matching—comparing datasets, which can help identify potentially fraudulent contractors.