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Are the auditor’s responsibilities for detection …

Are the auditor’s responsibilities for detection of Frauds and Errors?

Are the auditor’s responsibilities for detection of Frauds and Errors?

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Chiranjibi Aug. 27, 2018

Whether the auditor has performed an audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in India is determined by the adequacy of the audit procedures performed in the circumstances and the suitability of the auditor's report based on the result of these procedures. In planning and performing his examination the auditor should take into consideration the risk of material misstatement of the financial information caused by fraud or error.


He should inquire with the management as to any fraud or significant error, which has occurred in the reporting period, and modify his audit procedures, if necessary. If circumstances indicate the possible existence of fraud and error, the auditor should consider the potential effect of the suspected fraud and error on the financial information. If he is unable to obtain evidence to confirm, he should consider the relevant laws and regulations before expressing his opinion.


The auditor also has the responsibility to communicate the misstatement to the appropriate level of management on a timely basis and consider the need to report to it then changed with governance. He may also obtain legal advice before reporting on the financial information or before withdrawing from the engagement.


The auditor should satisfy himself that the effect of fraud is properly reflected in the financial information or the error is corrected in case the modified procedures performed by the auditor confirm the existence of the fraud. The auditor should also consider the implications of the frauds and errors, and frame his report appropriately.


In case of a fraud, the same should be disclosed in the financial statement. If adequate disclosure is not made, there should be a suitable disclosure in his audit report.


Further, as per sub-section 12 of section 143 of the Companies Act, 2013, if an auditor of a company, in the course of the performance of his duties as auditor, has reason to believe that an offence involving fraud is being or has been committed against the company by officers or employees of the company, he shall immediately report the matter to the Central Government within 60 days of his knowledge and after following the prescribed procedure.