2025

IIA Winnipeg Chapter

Summer Lunch and Learn (Virtual)

Presentation: Fraud Detection in the Age of AI: Why Humans Still Matter

Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025

Time: 12:00pm to 1:00pm CT

As AI and advanced analytics continue to transform fraud detection across a wide range of industries, organizations are increasingly automating decision-making processes to enhance efficiency and scale. However, relying solely on automated systems without robust human oversight can create significant risks, including unchecked bias, errors, and ethical concerns, that may undermine the effectiveness and fairness of fraud detection efforts. This session delves into the evolving concept of “Human-in-the-Loop” (HITL), highlighting how the combination of human expertise and machine intelligence creates a more balanced, accurate, and accountable approach to identifying and managing fraud.

Participants will learn how internal auditors can assess and support the integration of AI technologies with human expertise to create effective systems for fraud detection and prevention. Attendees will explore methods to audit the collaboration points where AI flags potential fraud and humans make critical decisions, ensuring robust controls, clear accountability, and continuous improvement in fraud risk management. This approach enables auditors to help their organizations leverage AI’s power while maintaining necessary oversight to prevent errors, bias, and operational gaps.

SPEAKER

Maris Sekar

Maris is a seasoned professional engineer and data scientist with a proven track record of driving innovation in analytics and fraud detection. He has led transformative initiatives at leading organizations including PwC, Shell Canada, TC Energy, and Equite Association. A recognized expert in fraud analytics, Maris has received multiple awards and contributed extensively to the field through published articles, peer-reviewed papers, and, most recently, a book focused on applying machine learning in auditing. He currently serves as a senior leader in Fraud Analytics and Product Development at Équité Association, a national organization dedicated to combating insurance fraud across Canada. Maris also serves on the Executive Committee of APEGA, contributing to the governance and strategic direction of Alberta’s professional engineering and geoscience community.