What is AML screening?
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) screening is the process of checking individuals and organisations
to help prevent money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crime.
In the UK, AML checks are required under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer
of Funds Regulations 2017 and related regulatory guidance.
What are sanctions checks?
Sanctions checks involve screening individuals and organisations against official sanctions lists
issued by the UK and other international authorities.
- Freezing of assets
- Restrictions on payments or financial services
- Prohibition of certain business relationships
It is a criminal offence in the UK to deal with a sanctioned person or entity without appropriate
authorisation.
What is a PEP check?
A Politically Exposed Person (PEP) is someone who holds, or has held, a prominent public function.
- Senior politicians or government officials
- Senior members of the judiciary or military
- Executives of state-owned organisations
- Immediate family members and known close associates
PEPs are considered higher risk due to their position and are subject to enhanced due diligence
under UK law.
What is adverse media screening?
Adverse media screening involves reviewing publicly available information to identify negative
or concerning reports about an individual or organisation.
- Criminal investigations or convictions
- Allegations of fraud or corruption
- Regulatory or enforcement action
- Links to organised crime or terrorism
Why these checks are required
- To comply with UK legal and regulatory obligations
- To prevent financial crime and terrorist financing
- To manage legal, financial and reputational risk
- To ensure safe and responsible business relationships
How the checks are carried out
Information usually collected
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Address
- Company registration details (where applicable)
Usual Screening process
- Checks against UK and international sanctions lists
- Identification of PEP status
- Review of relevant adverse media sources
Ongoing monitoring
Screening may be repeated periodically or when circumstances change, in line with UK regulatory
requirements.
Helpful links and reference sources
Screening platforms
Official sanctions lists