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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Accounting and finance functions within business organisations

Which of the following is an example of a detective control within a finance function?

A monthly bank reconciliation by an independent clerk is a detective control because it identifies errors or unauthorised transactions after they have happened. Dual signatures, password access and pre-numbered orders are preventive controls that aim to stop problems occurring.

  1. AMonthly bank reconciliation prepared by an independent clerkCorrect
  2. BRequiring two signatures on cheques above a set limit
  3. CPassword-protected access to the payroll system
  4. DPre-numbered purchase orders issued in sequence

Explanation

A bank reconciliation identifies errors or irregularities after transactions have occurred, so it is detective. Dual signatures, password access and pre-numbered documents are designed to stop problems happening in the first place, making them preventive controls.

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