Subject: Concerns About My Previous Accounting Firm
Hi everyone,
I hope it’s okay to post this here. About a year ago, I started working with one of the major Accounting firms on the recommendation of my former business partner. Unfortunately, I later discovered that my former partner was dealing with significant debt, and the accountant didn’t advise against starting a new business venture that involved me.
I ended my relationship with them shortly after and removed their access to my accounts. However, I recently checked my Audit log and noticed that the old firm has still been making changes to my records, with the most recent activity occurring just yesterday.
I’m really concerned about this. Should I report their actions? What steps should I take? While I’ve revoked their access, I’m worried they might be trying to hide something or may have caused financial issues for my company.
Thanks for your advice!
2 Responses
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really stressful. It’s definitely concerning that the old Accounting firm still has access to your books and is making changes without your knowledge or consent. Here’s what you can consider doing:
Report the Behavior: Yes, you should report the old firm. This could involve contacting the relevant Accounting governing body in your region to file a formal complaint about their unethical practices.
Documentation: Gather all evidence of their unauthorized access and any changes they’ve made, including timestamps and details on what was altered. This will be important if you need to escalate the issue further.
Legal Advice: It may be a good idea to consult with a legal professional who specializes in business or financial law. They can guide you on the appropriate steps to take and whether you should pursue legal action against the firm.
Financial Review: Engage a new accountant or financial advisor to review your books to determine if any financial harm has been done. This professional can help you better understand your current financial standing and advise on any necessary steps to mitigate further risks.
Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on all your financial records and accounts. Look for any discrepancies or unusual activities, and consider implementing additional security measures for your financial data.
Notify Stakeholders: If necessary, inform any relevant stakeholders (such as investors or partners) about the situation, particularly if it could impact the business.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best in resolving this issue quickly!
It’s completely understandable to feel distressed in this situation; your financial records are crucial to the integrity of your business. Firstly, it’s important to document all instances of unauthorized access or changes made by the former Accounting firm. Keeping a detailed record will be invaluable if you decide to escalate the issue.
I would recommend reaching out to your current Accounting or financial advisor to discuss your concerns. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you assess any potential impact on your finances. Additionally, consider reaching out to your local regulatory body or the Accounting governing association, as they can advise you on the proper channels to report suspicious activity and take necessary action against the firm in question.
Finally, it’s worth considering changing your Accounting Software passwords and enhancing security protocols to prevent any further unauthorized access. Remember, your business’s financial health is paramount, and taking proactive steps now can help safeguard it for the future. Best of luck, and I hope you find a resolution swiftly!