By: Violet Wilson, ORHA President
January 2026

Protecting Your Organization from Fraud and Cybersecurity Risks

Recently, my business bank conducted a class for clients focused on Navigating Fraud and Cyber Security Risks. The session was incredibly eye-opening, revealing just how easily theft can occur. We learned that fraud has been on the rise, and small companies are particularly vulnerable to these risks. Often, the individual committing the fraud is someone who would not typically be suspected, but who possesses the opportunity, motivation, and rationalization to steal significant amounts from the business. Furthermore, the advent of artificial intelligence has made it even more challenging to safeguard business resources.

Protecting our assets is essential to maintaining the integrity and financial well-being of organizations such as ORHA and our local associations. In response to these risks, ORHA has implemented a variety of safeguards, including:

• Multiple levels of written approvals required before payments are made
• Written contracts established with all vendors
• Monthly bank reconciliations, which include a thorough review of checks issued
• Oversight by a financial review committee
• A bookkeeper appointed who is independent from the treasurer
• Heightened awareness of potential email and phone scams

It is also important to acknowledge that individuals may face personal challenges, such as gambling, drug use, or living beyond their means. These issues can impact their capacity to act responsibly and to uphold the trust placed in them by the organization. Even those with long tenures or respected positions, such as former long-time property managers and trainers, may encounter circumstances that affect trust within the organization.

These experiences underscore the necessity for vigilance and responsible oversight as your association continues to grow and evolve. Every organization should periodically review their financial procedures to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place.