As we approach Christmas, many families have again turned to the “Elf on the Shelf” to drive good behavior in their children.  Misbehave and the elf will go right to Santa with a recommendation for a lump of coal.  Government contractors need to understand that they live with an elf on the shelf year-round.  Whether it’s in the guise of an agency IG or a whistleblower, your elf is ready to point out problems with contract compliance.  Making mistakes in this environment can bring you more than a lump of coal, too.  Companies must take compliance seriously.  Not concerned because you probably won’t get audited?  Most False Claims Act cases are actually started by whistleblowers.   They can be anyone from current or former employees to competitors or someone hoping to make a buck off of your inattention.  There’s a powerful incentive too:  they share in any money the government recovers, sometimes into the seven-figure range.  Make sure that your holiday season, and the rest of the year, isn’t turned upside down by an elf.  Make sure your compliance programs are up to date and your staff educated.