Understanding Tipping Off

Tipping off can turn a routine compliance matter into a legal breach with serious consequences. This course explains what constitutes tipping off, why it’s prohibited, and how to communicate appropriately when a suspicious activity report is involved. Learn how to uphold confidentiality while supporting the fight against financial crime.

20 - 25 minutes

Certificate Included

Global

Description

This course provides a clear and practical explanation of what tipping off means within the financial services industry. Learners will understand how both deliberate and unintentional disclosures can jeopardise investigations, expose institutions to risk, and undermine AML efforts. Through real-world examples and practical guidance, this course strengthens awareness of confidentiality obligations and empowers professionals to recognise and prevent tipping off in their daily work.

What will you learn?

Module 1 – Understanding the Concept of Tipping Off
Learn what tipping off means, how it occurs—intentionally or accidentally—and how seemingly harmless disclosures can compromise AML investigations.
Module 2 – The Global Context
Explore how international organisations such as the FATF, Basel Committee, European Union, and United Nations promote confidentiality and global cooperation in preventing tipping off.
Module 3 – Risks and Consequences
Examine the legal, financial, and reputational consequences of tipping off, including personal liability and institutional penalties.
Module 4 – Recognising Red Flags
Identify the behavioural and procedural warning signs that may lead to tipping off, and learn how to differentiate legitimate inquiries from attempts to access confidential information.
Module 5 – Best Practices for Professionals
Understand how to maintain confidentiality through secure communication, limited information sharing, and consistent consultation with the MLRO or Compliance Officer when in doubt.