Number of suspicious transactions reported in Italy jumps by nearly 33% so far this year; Albania a top destination for potentially dirty money

Regulatory Watch News

• 

  SFC warns public of CBEX Group and Bitget Pro for suspected virtual asset-related fraud

  Securities and Futures Commission

  April 23, 2024

  The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) today warns the public of entities operating under the names of “CBEX Group” and “Bitget Pro” for suspected virtual asset-related fraudulent activities . Investors reported difficulties with virtual asset withdrawals or unauthorised withdrawals. The SFC suspects that the platforms may have deceived investors with fake withdrawal records. At the SFC’s request, the Hong Kong Police Force has taken steps to block access to relevant websites. Notwithstanding the action taken, the public should beware that scammers may continue to create websites with similar domain names.

• 

  FinCEN Reminds Financial Institutions to Remain Vigilant to Environmental Crimes

  FinCEN

  April 22, 2024

  WASHINGTON—As the nation reflects on the many ways to protect our environment this Earth Day, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) reminds financial institutions to remain vigilant in identifying and reporting suspicious activity related to environmental crimes. Environmental crimes frequently involve transnational criminal activity related to several of FinCEN’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) National Priorities, including corruption, fraud, human trafficking, and drug trafficking.

• 

  Email Alert – Phishing emails related to Hang Seng Bank, Limited

  HKMA

  April 22, 2024

  The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Hang Seng Bank, Limited relating to phishing emails, which have been reported to the HKMA.  A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.