Frequently Asked Questions

If you are having trouble understanding how to perform searches then we recommend reading the two pdfs here:

We have created a pdf document which contains all the details you have enquired about, including links to sample reports and a walk through.

The document is available to view here: https://www.amlsearch.co.uk/samples/aml_introduction.pdf

A result of 'Failed' always means the search didn't complete and we will not return a report in these circumstances. 

The only valid results normally are 'Passed' or 'Referred'.

We never charge for 'Failed' results.
 

A 'Passed' result means that the system has found at least the number of ID's and Addresses you specified in your risk profile by searching appropriate databases for information. It will still be at your discretion as to whether you have enough information to satisfy the JMLSG guidelines, and that will also be dependent on the risk profile you selected.

A 'referred' result means that the total amount of successful ID and addresses returned by the system is less than required to pass the AML Search. The number of positive checks required is based on the risk profile you select.

It has been referred back to yourselves so your MLRO or nominated officer can look at the case in more detail and decide if there are any issues that need to be followed up, and if you still wish to engage with this client.

An AML Search result will not ever be updated automatically, as it is solely based on the data you entered and the results found at that moment in time. If someone has been referred there may be a number of factors that you can use to influence the likelihood of a Pass result. Firstly, you can obtain additional documentary evidence from the client and indicate on the search that you have seen them (include references for Passport and Driving Licences to get additional checks), or even upload them electronically. Also, you can try to interview people face-to-face rather than by letter or on the phone as the latter increases the requirements for the number of electeonic results.

No.

The additional documentary evidence is used in addition to the other electronic checks performed but are still valid ID checks (i.e. you have verified a passport/driving licence/utility bill visually).  AML Search is designed around the prescriptive requirements for a electronic verification system as detailed in the Joint Money Laundering Steering Groups (JMLSG) Guidance Notes. The use of electronic verification on a risk based approach is recognised by the FSA, Law Society, and Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales.

You need to apply to join the government run Data Protection scheme which can be done online using this link:
http://www.ico.gov.uk/for_organisations/data_protection/notification/notify.aspx

It is a good idea to spend some time understanding your responsibilities under the Data Protection Act first, as the penalties can be harsh.

Before you can start performing searches, our accounts team will need to set up your direct debit details. Once your account has been approved (they will send you an extra email to confirm this), you will see additional buttons available on the site to perform both Personal and Non-Personal searches.

An International Personal AML Search now contains two Pass, Fail or Refer results, Identity Confirmation and Alerts & Warnings. Clearly Pass and Pass is a Green light. Refer and Pass merely means that positive identity cannot be fully verified and more information should be sought by the firm in support of the electronic search result (i.e. hard copy proof of identity and address).

We are unable to provide matching to an individual using a BFPO address.

Our UK AML data covers UK addresses only, and our (version 2 only) international AML check and ID data only covers a country's own address format.