In an August 5, 2026, article published by Federal News Network, Veronica Nannis discusses what insiders should know if they suspect fraud against the federal government and are considering filing a whistleblower claim under the False Claims Act (FCA).
Under the FCA, private citizens, known as relators, can bring claims on behalf of the government to expose fraud and help recover federal funds. As Veronica explains, potential fraud can take many forms, including up-charging medical services or codes, performing unnecessary medical procedures, providing products or services that do not meet federal contract requirements, or concealing the country of origin or value of goods to avoid U.S. customs or tariffs.
In the article, Veronica discusses what potential whistleblowers should do when they suspect fraud, including acting promptly, properly preserving evidence and maintaining confidentiality. She addresses potential pitfalls as well, including the FCA’s first-to-file rule, which can bar a later whistleblower from recovering even when that person has stronger evidence of fraud.
Veronica also highlights the law’s protections against retaliation and emphasizes the importance of seeking trusted legal advice early in the process. “The most successful whistleblowers seek legal advice early, become educated and act strategically,” Veronica writes.
Read the article “Thinking of blowing the whistle? Actions to take, pitfalls to avoid” on the Federal News Network website.
