Question: Ethics goes hand in hand with fraud detection and auditing. As accountants, we are held to a higher standard than most. Clients rely on us to ensure their information remains confidential as well as relying on us to detect both fraud and the potential for fraud. They trust us to help ensure their business runs efficiently and abides by SEC and IRS rules. Part of ensuring we meet this expectation is performing due diligence. For me to remain an ethical accountant, and for anyone, it is imperative to continue education, keeping up with all of the SAS, IRS, SEC, etc. changes. If we do not know the law, we cannot ethically remain in the profession. Another item is to ensure we've put enough consideration into the acceptance of a client. If a potential client is known for breaking the law, or skirting around the low and looking for loopholes, it may not be a good idea to accept that engagement.