What is "Know Your Customer" (KYC)?

Fighting Financial Fraud: The Role of KYC in a Changing World

In 2021, financial fraud losses surged to $5.8 billion—a staggering 70% increase in just one year. To combat this growing threat, financial institutions must adopt robust measures to reduce anonymous bank accounts and monitor suspicious activities. One of the most effective tools in this fight is KYC, or “Know Your Customer.”

KYC regulations, gaining momentum after 9/11 under the PATRIOT Act, require financial institutions to verify customer identities and assess risks through two core components: the Customer Identification Program (CIP) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD). This due diligence process is essential for preventing money laundering, terrorism financing, and other types of fraud.

Clients meet KYC requirements by providing proof of identity (e.g., ID card, face, or biometric verification) and address, ensuring they are who they claim to be. KYC is a critical part of the broader Anti-Money Laundering (AML) framework, which establishes guidelines for financial institutions to prevent illegal activity and comply with global regulations.

With fraud losses on the rise, KYC regulations have become essential for banks, credit unions, and other institutions engaged in financial transactions. By implementing strong KYC processes, these organizations protect themselves, their customers, and the global financial system.
To learn more about KYC and its role in fraud prevention, visit https://www.easternpointtrust.com/

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