Final answer:
Fraud is typically difficult to detect and is seldom observed. It can be hard to prove because of the reliance on eyewitness memory which may be unreliable, and the occurrence of fraud doesn't always make it clear that a crime has been committed, especially in cases of identity theft.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided regarding fraud, the true statement is that it is seldom observed. Fraud is typically difficult to detect because the actions involved are often concealed or made to appear legitimate. For instance, in the realm of statistical fraud and research, some researchers may discontinue data collection prematurely upon obtaining results that confirm their hypotheses, thereby avoiding evidence that might contradict their claims. This type of fraud is not easily identified because further and more comprehensive data collection that might reveal inconsistencies is foregone.
When it comes to crimes such as theft or identity theft, the memory of eyewitnesses can be critical in solving a case. However, the fragility of memory and suggestibility can lead to false remembrances being implanted, complicating the task of identifying the perpetrator. This phenomenon was especially evident during incidents like the DC sniper attacks, where despite law enforcement receiving over 140,000 tips, the vast number of potential suspects made the task of pinpointing the actual perpetrator exceedingly challenging.
The occurrence of fraud does not always make it unquestionably clear that a crime has been committed, as determining criminal intent can be complex. Furthermore, during many fraud instances, there are not typically many witnesses, and those who are present may not be reliable due to issues with memory accuracy or misinformation. Identity theft is a prime example of fraud that can be difficult to prove and often goes undiscovered until the victim notices the damaging effects.