Red flags by industry

The same indicators as the full red-flags index, regrouped for the people who are in a position to notice them. Pick the sector you work in.

Accountants, lawyers and company formation agents

Gatekeepers form companies, hold client money and prepare the paperwork banks rely on. Most are honest; the red flags help the rest of the profession spot misuse.
Banks and credit unions

Accounts and wires are where most laundering eventually has to pass. These techniques show up in account opening, deposits, transfers and correspondent relationships.
Cash-intensive businesses and payment processors

Businesses that take a lot of cash, and processors that handle their card payments, can be used to blend criminal money into real takings.
Casinos and online gaming

Casinos convert cash into chips and payouts, and online gaming platforms hold balances and in-game currency. Both can make money look like winnings or play.
Crypto exchanges and virtual asset providers

Virtual asset service providers sit where crypto meets regular money. Their screening is often the point at which investigators can link wallets to real people.
Money services businesses and remitters

Currency exchangers, remitters and informal value-transfer operators move value for customers who often have no bank account, which is both their purpose and their risk.
Dealers in gold, art and luxury goods

High-value, portable goods can hold or move value outside the banking system, and prices are often subjective.
Real estate agents, lawyers and notaries

Property is a place to park large sums, and the professionals who close the deal are often the only ones who see both the buyer and the money.
Securities firms and insurers

Brokerage accounts and insurance policies hold and move value in ways that look like ordinary investing or saving.
Trade finance, importers and exporters

Trade paperwork can carry value across borders. Mismatches between invoices, goods and payments are the signal reviewers look for.