Classification
Unusual is not the same as wrong.Wrong is not the same as proved.
Every item Periscope raises carries a level. The level states exactly how far the evidence goes, and no further. This is the discipline that makes a finding usable in a dispute, a board meeting or a regulatory response.
Seven levels
From observation to confirmed pattern.
Activity falls within expected behavior.
A difference exists but may have an ordinary explanation.
Activity materially deviates from an established pattern.
Multiple facts suggest potential improper activity.
Available evidence supports a documented conclusion.
Evidence indicates intentional or unauthorized conduct may have occurred.
The matter is formally referred to leadership, counsel, compliance or law enforcement.
A finding that overstates itself
is worth less than no finding at all.
Severity
Level says what it is. Severity says how fast it moves.
Informational
Included in the next report
Program contact
Low
Monitored for recurrence
Program contact
Moderate
Client review requested
Program contact, operations lead
High
Immediate alert and case opening
Executive sponsor, compliance
Critical
Executive and counsel escalation
Executive sponsor, general counsel
Discipline
The rules that govern classification.
- Nothing is labeled fraud because it is unusual.
- A validated finding requires a named analyst, a traceable source and an independent reviewer.
- An alternative explanation that still accounts for the pattern stops the item where it stands.
- Estimates are reported as estimates, with the basis stated.
- Models assist with extraction, structuring and drafting. They never set a level and never sign off.
- The same records are never counted twice across findings.