MCAB - Crimes the Business Commits (Lesson)

Crimes the Business Commits

Introduction

Crimes committed by businesses and corporations are generally characterized by deceit, concealment, or violation of the public trust. These types crimes do not necessarily depend on some sort of physical threat or violence. However, many business entities, associates, individuals, and society are greatly negatively impacted by the actions of the criminals committing the crimes. Most of the crimes committed by business entities, referred to as white-collar crime, are generally motivated by a financial aspect. The business or corporation committing this type crime is possibly looking to obtain or avoid losing money, property, or services in order to keep a financial advantage. In this microlesson we will take a look at some of the crimes a business entity or corporation may commit.

White Collar Crimes - Businesses or Corporations

Some white-collar crimes were discussed in the criminal law module. In this microlesson, we will discuss a few more and some in more detail. Keep in mind, however, this is only a sampling of the many criminal actions committed by individuals within a business or corporation, by a business entity, or a corporation.

Review the presentation below for more information on crimes committed specifically by business entities and corporations.

Let's Review!

Take a moment to participate in the following activity to practice your understanding of the topics in this module.  Reach out to your instructor if you have any questions.

Final Thoughts

In looking at crimes committed by business, it is often difficult to know who the “criminal” is.

Businesses can’t just worry about how they may be attacked by criminals from the outside; they also have to be concerned about criminal activity from the inside as well as through their own actions.

Most of these types of crimes are committed in the professional work environment, usually for the purpose of obtaining a financial gain through the use of deception. White-collar criminals generally commit their crimes on the job, at their desk, during the course of a regular work day. We reviewed several notable criminal cases in the previous criminal law section. Businesses must be vigilant against crime within their own walls; however, there is no absolute way to identify those who might turn to criminal behavior in the workplace.

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