Why AML Compliance Matters
Anti-money laundering (AML) legislation requires a wide range of businesses to carry out due diligence checks on their clients before providing services. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines, regulatory sanctions, and reputational damage.
Under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 and the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, businesses operating in regulated sectors must verify the identity of their clients, screen them against sanctions and politically exposed persons (PEP) lists, and maintain accurate records of the checks carried out.
For many businesses – particularly smaller firms and sole practitioners – building this process in-house is time-consuming and expensive. The OutSec Group provides a practical, outsourced solution that keeps your business compliant without adding to your internal workload.
Our AML and Identity Verification Services
We offer a comprehensive suite of compliance checks, carried out on your behalf by our trained team. All checks are conducted in accordance with current UK AML regulations.
We verify the identity of your clients using government-issued documents including passports and driving licences. Checks are carried out against live databases to confirm document authenticity and confirm the individual is who they claim to be.
We verify proof-of-address documents including utility bills, bank statements, and official correspondence. We confirm that the address provided matches the identity of the individual and meets the requirements for standard customer due diligence.
PEP and Sanctions Screening
We screen individuals against international sanctions lists and politically exposed persons (PEP) databases. This check is a mandatory element of the customer due diligence process for regulated businesses and helps identify elevated-risk clients at the point of onboarding.
For clients who require a complete end-to-end solution, we offer a comprehensive AML check combining identity verification, document checks, and PEP and sanctions screening. We compile a clear record of all checks carried out, providing the audit trail your business needs to demonstrate compliance.
Who We Work With
We work with businesses across all regulated sectors in the UK, including:
- Solicitors and law firms – subject to AML obligations under the SRA and HMRC
- Estate agents and property businesses – regulated under HMRC’s AML supervision regime
- Independent financial advisers and mortgage brokers – regulated by the FCA
- Accountants and tax advisers – supervised by HMRC, ICAEW, ACCA, and other professional bodies
- Other regulated businesses – any firm required to carry out customer due diligence under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017
If you are unsure whether your business is required to carry out AML checks, please contact us and we will be happy to advise.