How to ask someone about suspicious behavior without accusing them of it

Start Here

So you’re suspicious that someone’s been up to some chicanery, eh?
You may not have proof — or enough proof — and you want to give them the opportunity to say something.
Your tone should be light and positive. Give them the impression you couldn’t possibly believe they had done something wrong. You’re just trying to solve a problem.

Hi, <name>, I wanted to ask you about <whatever it is you’re suspicious of>.
<give them a moment to speak>
Look, to be clear, I’m not suggesting anything. It’s just that <brief summary of why you’re suspicious>.
<if they’re not answering, use a pregnant silence to pressure them to fill it by answering>
Please understand, I’m not suggesting anything other than the appearance of impropriety…
<if they still don’t answer, you must either accuse them then and there or walk away from the conversation>