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Home Resources Trust Is Not an Internal Control: Pink Collar Crime Exposed

Trust Is Not an Internal Control: Pink Collar Crime Exposed

Episode summary

In this episode of Behind Enemy Lines: Conversations with Fraud Fighters, host Mike LaFleur sits down with Kelly Paxton, Certified Fraud Examiner and host of the Fraudish podcast. Together, they explore the world of pink collar crime—fraud committed by everyday people in positions of trust, often within small businesses or local organizations.

Kelly explains why pink collar crime feels so personal and relatable, drawing on real cases like embezzlement in dental offices and community nonprofits. She challenges the myth that trust alone keeps businesses safe, stressing that “trust is not an internal control.” Kelly shares practical insights on how fraud starts small, how social media can reveal hidden clues, and why even well-run organizations face risk when internal controls fall short.

The conversation closes on the human side of fraud prevention. Kelly reflects on her work helping victims, her passion for education, and the importance of staying connected. Her story shows that fighting fraud isn’t just about numbers—it’s about protecting people and building a safer workplace for everyone.

Watch the Full Video Episode

Guest Profile

Kelly Paxton

What they do: CFE Speaker, Author, and Host of Fraudish

Company: Self-employed / Fraudish

Noteworthy: Known for her expertise on pink collar crime and embezzlement, Kelly educates businesses on fraud prevention and shares real-world insights from years of financial investigations.

Key Insights

Trust Is Not an Internal Control

Relying on gut instinct or personal trust is not enough to prevent fraud. Even business owners who feel close to their staff and believe they “pay people well” are at risk. True protection comes from clear internal controls, regular checks, and a healthy amount of curiosity. Simple actions like spot-checking transactions or requiring documentation for out-of-pattern payments can expose fraud before it grows. “Trust but verify” is more than a catchphrase—it’s a core practice for anyone handling money or sensitive operations. When you put systems above assumptions, you create an environment where fraudsters struggle to hide. Confidence in your team is valuable, but it should never replace oversight.

Pink Collar Crime Is Closer Than You Think

Fraud doesn’t always look like a high-profile scandal or a shadowy figure in a suit. Most embezzlement happens in everyday workplaces and community organizations—sometimes by people you know well. Pink collar crime often involves trusted employees who handle the day-to-day flow of money. These crimes are highly relatable because they hit close to home: the dental office, the local nonprofit, or the neighborhood soccer club. Recognizing this reality helps leaders spot red flags early and take prevention seriously, even in small teams. It’s not about suspicion—it’s about understanding that access and opportunity, not intent alone, drive most workplace fraud.

Social Media Leaves a Trail for Fraud Investigators

Social media has become a powerful tool for uncovering fraud. Posts, photos, and location check-ins can reveal much about a person’s lifestyle and spending habits. Investigators use these public clues to connect the dots between unexplained wealth and missing funds. Even when someone denies wrongdoing, a picture at a casino or an expensive vacation can raise questions—and provide evidence. Open source intelligence gathered from social media often brings fraud to light faster than traditional methods. For businesses, this means that digital footprints matter. Awareness of how online behavior intersects with workplace conduct helps organizations both detect fraud and guide their teams on responsible sharing.