Modern Technologies in Financial Accounting: From AI and Blockchain to Crypto, RPA, and Cybersecurity

Course Overview
This course provides an overview of key technologies transforming accounting and finance. It covers Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications in accounting software, blockchain for secure transactions, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to streamline operations. Participants will also explore crypto assets and their impact on accounting, alongside the role of forensic accounting in fraud detection. The course concludes with a two-part focus on cybersecurity, addressing both foundational principles and advanced practices for protecting financial data.

Learning Objectives

Chapter 1
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Identify key concepts related to AI
•    Recognize subsets of machine learning
•    Identify key characteristics of deep learning
•    Recognize how AI can be used in the accounting profession

Chapter 2
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Identify key differences in traditional vs. AI-driven accounting software
•    Recognize examples of various types of AI accounting software

Chapter 3
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Identify key components and concepts of blockchain technology
•    Recall steps in blockchain transactions and consensus mechanisms
•    Distinguish between blockchain and traditional databases
•    Recognize use cases of blockchain for CPAs

Chapter 4
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Recognize benefits of implementing RPA technology
•    Identify some of the key components of RPA architecture
•    Recognize types of organizations that benefit most from RPA technology
•    Identify some of the challenges when implementing RPA technology

Chapter 5
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Recognize the criteria for determining what constitutes a crypto assets based on U.S. GAAP
•    Identify the recognition requirements for crypto assets
•    Recognize the way in which crypto assets are presented on an entity's financial statements
•    Identify disclosure requirements with respect to crypto assets

Chapter 6
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Recognize the key objectives of forensic accounting
•    Identify techniques that forensic accountant use to perform engagements
•    Recognize the standards which forensic accountants should follow
•    Identify the importance of maintaining a clear audit trail in a forensic engagement

Chapter 7
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Identify common cyber threats
•    Recognize key cybersecurity terminology and concepts
•    Recognize the importance of encryption, secure communication, and software updates
•    Identify the importance of firewalls

Chapter 8
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
•    Identify key cybersecurity best practices for protecting digital assets and privacy
•    Recognize the role of encryption and access controls in defending against cyber threats
•    Select proactive measures to improve defenses against evolving cyber adversaries
•    Determine the importance of regular software updates in maintaining cybersecurity

Revision Date:  NEW 11/19/2024

Additional Contents : Complete, no additional material needed
Advance Preparation : None
Intended Participants : Any CPA looking to maintain or enhance their professional competence
Course Declaration : Participants must complete the final examination within one year of purchase. A minimum passing grade of 70% or better is required to receive CPE
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