GRC Report Staff

DaVita Inc., a Fortune 500 company and one of the largest providers of kidney care services in the United States, has agreed to pay $34,487,390 to settle allegations of engaging in multiple illegal kickback schemes. The settlement, announced by the U.S. Department of Justice on July 18, 2024, comes after years of investigation and highlights the government's intensified efforts to combat fraud in the healthcare sector.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has announced a series of enforcement actions for July 2024, highlighting its dedication to maintaining robust governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) across national banks and federal savings associations. These measures underscore the OCC's commitment to ensuring that institutions operate within regulatory frameworks and uphold high standards of conduct.

The cybersecurity sector faces a delicate balancing act between protection, progress, and business enablement. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated and widespread, organizations are increasingly challenged to safeguard their operations while still driving innovation and efficiency. This dynamic environment demands a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity that addresses rising costs, emerging threats, and the integration of advanced technologies.

The U.S. Department of Justice has announced two significant settlements this week, highlighting its ongoing efforts to combat fraud in both COVID-19 relief programs and healthcare services.

Deloitte's 2024 Sustainability Action Report, released on July 18, 2024, unveils a landscape of rapid evolution and strategic shifts in corporate sustainability practices across the United States. The survey, which polled 300 senior business leaders, highlights significant progress in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration, while also revealing persistent challenges in data quality and reporting.

The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has taken several key actions during its latest plenary session held on July 17, 2024, in Brussels. The EDPB adopted a statement recommending that Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) play a crucial role in enforcing the AI Act. The Board suggests that DPAs should be designated as Market Surveillance Authorities (MSAs) for high-risk AI systems, particularly in sectors such as law enforcement, border management, and democratic processes. This recommendation aims to leverage DPAs' expertise in assessing AI's impact on fundamental rights, especially data protection.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has awarded more than $37 million to a whistleblower whose invaluable information played a crucial role in a successful legal action against securities violations. This landmark award underscores the SEC's commitment to transparency and investor protection.