In evaluating financial risks, which of the following controls is considered preventive?

The control considered preventive in the context of evaluating financial risks is wire transfer procedures. Preventive controls are designed to deter unwanted events from occurring, and well-defined wire transfer procedures are essential for reducing the risk of unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. These procedures typically include multi-factor authentication, dual approvals for large transfers, and clearly defined workflows. By implementing such protocols, organizations can proactively prevent potential financial losses that could arise from improper wire transfers.

In comparison, fraud monitoring is primarily a detective control, as its purpose is to identify and report on fraudulent activities after they have occurred. Background checks serve a similar role, ensuring that individuals are fit for their positions but not actively preventing fraud on their own. Access controls focus on limiting who can view or handle financial data, which may help to mitigate risks but does not inherently prevent fraud from happening as effectively as properly crafted wire transfer protocols do.