Types of Malfeasance
1. Bribery: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an official in the discharge of their duties. It can involve cash, gifts, favors, or other benefits in exchange for favorable treatment.
2. Embezzlement: Misappropriation or theft of funds or property entrusted to one’s care, often by someone in a position of trust or authority. This could involve skimming money from accounts, forging checks, or diverting assets for personal gain.
3. Corruption: Abuse of power for personal gain, which can manifest in various forms such as kickbacks, nepotism, cronyism, or patronage. It undermines fair and transparent decision-making processes and can lead to unequal treatment of individuals or businesses.
4. Fraud: Deception or misrepresentation intended to result in financial or personal gain or to cause harm to others. This can include securities fraud, insurance fraud, identity theft, or any other scheme designed to deceive and defraud individuals or organizations.
5. Abuse of Power: Misuse of authority or position to unjustly benefit oneself or others, often at the expense of those under one’s authority. This can include actions such as coercion, harassment, discrimination, or violating individuals’ rights.
6. Conflict of Interest: When an individual’s personal interests or loyalties conflict with their professional responsibilities or obligations. This can create situations where decision-making is biased or compromised, leading to actions that serve personal interests rather than the public good.