What is the primary goal of forensic data analysis?

The primary goal of forensic data analysis is to uncover fraud through data examination. This field focuses specifically on identifying irregularities, inconsistencies, or suspicious patterns in data that may indicate fraudulent activities. By employing various analytical techniques, forensic accountants can analyze financial records, transactions, and other relevant data to detect potentially illicit behavior.

This process often involves sifting through large datasets, looking for anomalies, and employing statistical methods to quantify the likelihood of fraud. The insights gained from this analysis are critical as they can lead to legal action, support investigations, or help organizations mitigate risks associated with fraud. The emphasis in forensic data analysis is distinctly on investigating and resolving fraud-related issues, setting it apart from other analyses not specifically focused on fraud detection.