“Once a denial is uttered, it becomes extremely difficult for the accused to change his response, because doing so would be an admission that he lied. Therefore, the interviewer must prevent an outright denial, thereby making it easier for the subject to confess”.

“One of the most effective techniques to stop or interrupt a denial is through a delaying tactic… the interviewer should attempt to delay the outright denial; he should not argue with the accused”.

Thus, Charles should interrupt with a delaying tactic.

After alibis are diffused, suspects may become quiet, withdrawn, or even cry. This often indicates they are considering confession. At this point, the interviewer should present an alternative question, forcing a choice between two answers that both imply guilt, thus leading toward a benchmark admission.

Phone records are classified as nonpublic records. The Fraud Examiners Manual explains that personal telephone and mobile records usually require consent, subpoena, or warrant to access. Public records, by contrast, include real property ownership and corporate filings. Therefore, B is correct.

Best practices when working with confidential informants include documenting payments and identities in ways that protect anonymity but avoid risks. The Fraud Examiners Manual and CFE Prep emphasize avoiding cash payments because they reduce transparency and create audit trail problems. Paying in cash is therefore NOT considered a best practice, whereas using initials, obtaining receipts, and documenting informant information in reports can be acceptable methods.

The Fraud Examiners Manual explains:

“A Certified Fraud Examiner should not promise confidentiality or leniency to an informant to obtain testimony… the confidentiality relationship runs first to the client or employer”.

Thus, Lisa cannot guarantee full confidentiality but may state she will do her best.

Signs of stress (e.g., shallow breathing, stuttering, shifting posture) do not automatically equal deception. The Fraud Examiners Manual states:

“Signs of stress do not always mean a subject is lying. An honest subject might feel stress simply by being questioned. Conclusions must be based on clusters of behavior and corroborating evidence, not a single indicator”.

The Manual says admission-seeking interviews should be conducted only when:

There is reasonable probability the subject committed the act,

All other reasonable investigative steps are complete, and

“The interviewer can reasonably control the place, time, and subject matter of the interview.”.Therefore, Erica must ensure control of time, place, and content before scheduling.