What should an AML compliance officer do upon observing unusual activity?

When an AML compliance officer observes unusual activity, the primary action involves initiating further investigation. This step is critical because unusual activity can indicate potential money laundering or other illegal financial transactions, and understanding the context and details surrounding the activity is necessary for appropriate action.

In many cases, unusual activity does not automatically warrant filing a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) or reporting to authorities without first gathering more information. The officer needs to assess the situation thoroughly to determine the nature of the unusual activities and whether they fit the threshold for a report.

Conducting further investigation allows the officer to analyze patterns, review related transactions, gather more evidence, and potentially consult with colleagues or legal advisors. This comprehensive approach ensures that subsequent actions taken are well-informed and comply with regulations. It's crucial to carry out this careful examination before escalating the situation to ensure that any actions taken are justified and necessary.