Scottish procurement policy handbook

24. Fraud response procedures, anti-competitive practices and cyber security

The risk of fraud must be appropriately managed by ensuring that any risks within procurement are identified and assessed, with specific counter-fraud controls and mitigation activity in place to minimise exposure to these risks. Any suspected or confirmed cases of fraud, bribery or corruption, must be reported as soon as possible.

Procurement Officers must also be alert to anti-competitive practices, such as collusion and conflict of interest, cartel activity and bid-rigging practices.

Audit Scotland have published information, supported by Police Scotland, which Procurement Officers can use to identify Procurement Red Flags.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has detailed information and a free e-Learning module which covers anti-competitive practices in procurement. The CMA has also published guidance on Bid-rigging for public sector procurers.

Care should also be taken with regards to Cyber Security. For further information, please see SPPN 2/2020.

The Sustainable Procurement Tools include a range of guidance concerning Security and Crime.

Procurement Officers should also ensure familiarity with the Scottish Government’s Serious Organised Crime strategy which provides guidance on dealing with serious and organised crime for public sector professionals.