Advances in Taxation Research
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): February - May

Auditor Competence and Independence in Fraud Detection: The Mediating Role of Audit Technology

Nailil Farrooh (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Yapis, Dompu, Indonesia)
Muh. Syahru Ramadhan (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Yapis, Dompu, Indonesia)
Fahrul Mauzu (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Yapis, Dompu, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine the direct effects of auditor competence and auditor independence on fraud detection and to analyze the mediating role of audit technology at the Dompu Regency Inspectorate. Research Method: This study employed a quantitative approach using primary data collected through questionnaires. The research sample consisted of 60 active auditors and Government Affairs Supervisory Officials (P2UPD) with at least one year of audit experience at the Inspectorate of Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The variables examined include auditor competence, auditor independence, audit technology, and fraud detection. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 3.0. Results and Discussion: The findings show that auditor competence and audit technology have significant positive effects on fraud detection. However, auditor independence does not directly affect fraud detection. Auditor competence and independence significantly enhance the use of audit technology. Furthermore, audit technology significantly mediates the effects of both auditor competence and auditor independence on fraud detection. Implications: These findings suggest that local governments should strengthen digital audit infrastructure to improve fraud detection and regional financial accountability. Originality: This study contributes by positioning audit technology as a mediating mechanism that links auditor competence and independence to fraud detection in the context of a local government inspectorate.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ATR

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Founded in 2023, Advances in Taxation Research publishes original research that promises to advance our understanding of taxation over diverse topics and research methods. This Journal welcomes research of significance across a wide range of primary and applied research methods, including ...