Identifying AML Suspicious Transactions

(UPDATED NOVEMBER 2025)

1. STR RED FLAGS SUMMARY SHEET (2025 EDITION)

2. STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES IN STR REPORTING (2025 GUIDE)

Detecting suspicious transactions is one of the most critical responsibilities within any financial institution, yet many compliance officers, frontline staff, and money laundering reporting officers (MLROs) still struggle to identify what is genuinely suspicious, how to interpret red flags, and how to escalate concerns appropriately. This course provides a clear, practical, and relevant understanding of what constitutes a suspicious transaction and how to manage the reporting process with confidence.

You will learn how suspicious transactions differ from unusual activities, how to evaluate customer behavior, and how to apply judgement when deciding whether an STR should be filed. The course explains the core responsibilities of staff, the legal and regulatory expectations, and how STRs fit into the wider AML/CFT framework. You will also explore the main categories of red flags, including indicators of money laundering, fraud, and terrorism financing.

Through step-by-step lessons, quizzes, and reading materials, you will develop practical skills in identifying suspicious patterns, understanding escalation procedures, and knowing exactly what information needs to be reported. This includes how to document observations, maintain confidentiality, and support your institution’s compliance efforts.

This course is suitable for beginners and professionals looking to strengthen their foundational AML/STR knowledge. It also includes additional updated resources to support your learning and real-world application.