In the property market, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations is crucial for estate agents. The £1.6 million fines imposed by HMRC recently have further highlighted the necessity of being compliant within the industry. How can estate agents stay AML compliant? AML regulations are designed to prevent the real estate sector from being used as […]
7 secure payment processing methods – check, verify, pay
The benefits of verifying customers before processing payments Verifying customers before processing payments is crucial in today’s digital world, where security threats and financial fraud are rampant. This verification process, which typically involves confirming a customer’s identity through various means (such as KYC—Know Your Customer procedures), helps businesses mitigate fraud, reduce chargebacks, and ensure compliance with […]
How AML checks protect estate agents from fraud
In the UK real estate sector, the importance of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks cannot be overstated. These measures are the frontline defence against infiltrating illicit funds entering the legitimate property market, offering a crucial barrier against money laundering activities. Estate agents are pivotal in property transactions; however, they must navigate these regulations precisely, ensuring compliance while facilitating smooth client […]
Is open banking safe?
Open banking refers to the practice of using open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that enable third-party developers to build applications and services around the financial institution. This means that with customer consent, banks can share financial data securely with trusted third-party providers, fostering innovation and competition in the financial services industry. For customers, open banking […]
Preventing accidental money mule activities in client onboarding
Regulated businesses like ours should stay vigilant against inadvertent involvement in money laundering activities, particularly with accidental money mules, due to the ever-evolving nature of the financial landscape. This vigilance is essential to maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, upholding the integrity of our operations, and safeguarding our reputation. Additionally, detecting and preventing such activities helps […]
Source of funds checks enhance AML compliance
Enhanced source of funds verification and statements of wealth are a crucial part of the ongoing effort to create a secure and transparent financial environment. While they may seem complex, they are essential in safeguarding against money laundering, a practice which, although involving only a small percentage of transactions, plays a major role in criminal […]