A new report from the EY Center for Board Matters highlights how technology has become both a growing risk and a critical tool in the fight against fraud.

Journal of Accountancy reports that leaders from the Center for Audit Quality (CAQ) emphasized that while rapid advances in AI and digital systems have expanded the threat landscape, they also offer meaningful opportunities to strengthen fraud prevention and detection when used thoughtfully. 

“Amidst this dynamic environment, technology really gives us an opportunity to raise the bar in the fight against fraud,” said Erin Cromwell, a senior manager for professional practices at the CAQ, adding that success will depend on “the combination of humans and technology.”

That message echoed themes EY’s report, which outlined audit committee priorities for 2026 and underscored that fraud risk cuts across financial reporting, regulatory developments, tax, and broader risk management. 

At the AICPA Conference on Current SEC and PCAOB Developments, CAQ leaders stressed the need for vigilance as fraud tactics evolve alongside technology.

“It’s important to recognize that we are currently operating in a dynamic fraud risk environment,” said Lucy Wang, noting the influence of rapid technological change and shifting regulatory priorities. She emphasized continual monitoring, reassessment of controls, and sustained professional skepticism. 

Despite the challenges, CAQ leaders cautioned against overreaction. “The tools are working,” said Dennis McGowan, arguing that progress depends less on reinventing systems and more on maintaining focus, collaboration, and a disciplined human-plus-technology approach to combating fraud.