Protecting University Assets
Note: This section does not address the subjects of research misconduct or the theft of intellectual property. The University has separate policies governing research misconduct and ownership of intellectual property which are available from the Office of the Vice Provost.
Protection of University Assets
Sound business conduct requires that each employee, as a basic condition of employment, assume responsibility for safeguarding and preserving the assets and resources of Tufts University, particularly those for which he or she is responsible. The following policy statements serve to remind us of that basic commitment and responsibility.
- All revenues generated by the University and all expenditures for goods and services, must be recorded and accounted for within the financial accounting system of the institution.
- No false entries are to be made for any reason in the accounting records of the University. Moreover, no payment on behalf of the University is to be approved or made with the understanding that any part of such a payment is to be used for any purpose other than that described by the documents supporting the payment.
- The use of University funds or assets for any personal or unlawful purpose is prohibited.
- The use of any University equipment, supplies, or facilities for a revenue generating activity that benefits an individual employee is prohibited.
- No person in a supervisory or management position is to use the authority of that position to assign an employee to perform non-employment-related tasks.
- Managers have a responsibility to develop and implement controls to minimize opportunities for fraud to occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: | What should I do if I notice that goods being ordered by a coworker for personal use are being charged to a department account? |
Answer: | The misuse of University assets for personal gain is improper and considered fraud. You should report your suspicions to your supervisor, chair, or dean, and to Audit and Management Advisory Services for investigation and follow-up. |
Question: | I recently witnessed one of my fellow employees submitting false receipts for business travel. What can I do? |
Answer: | Report what you have seen to your supervisor, chair, or dean, and to Audit and Management Advisory Services for investigation and follow-up. |
Question: | I'm aware of fraudulent activity taking place at the University that I'd like to see stopped but don't want to get involved. Is there any way I can proceed? |
Answer: | The University encourages all faculty and staff members to come forward with any and all honest allegations of fraud or suspected fraud. However, employees may submit information anonymously by using Tufts’ on-line reporting option which can be accessed at: Tufts Anonymous Reporting Hotline Access is also available by dialing toll-free 1-866-384-4277 |