Knowing your customers is a fundamental principle in the financial sector. Customer due diligence (CDD) is a process that ensures businesses have sufficient information about their customers to identify risks related to money laundering, fraud, and other financial crimes.
By collecting and analysing customer data, businesses can make informed decisions and comply with regulatory requirements governing financial transactions.
In this article, we will explain what customer due diligence entails, why it is important, and how the process works in practice.
Customer Due Diligence is the process in which businesses collect and verify information about their customers to assess potential risks. The goal is to ensure that the customer is who they claim to be and that their financial activities do not pose a risk for money laundering or terrorist financing.
Depending on the customer’s risk profile, the CDD process can be more or less extensive. In some cases, basic identification is sufficient, while high-risk customers require a more detailed review, known as enhanced due diligence (EDD).
Banks and other financial institutions are required to conduct CDD on their customers. This process begins at the customer's first interaction with the bank and continues throughout the business relationship. Key aspects of CDD for banks include:
A robust CDD process helps banks detect and prevent financial crimes while creating a safer business environment for all parties.
CDD regulations vary across jurisdictions, but some fundamental requirements apply universally:
CDD
A well-executed CDD process reduces the risk of financial crime and protects businesses from legal and financial consequences. Streamline your CDD process with Trapets’ solutions – see how we can help you.
Not all customers pose the same level of risk, which is why a risk-based approach is used to determine the depth of the CDD process. This approach involves assessing each customer individually based on factors such as:
A risk-based approach allows businesses to allocate resources where they are most needed and ensure effective regulatory compliance.
The CDD process typically follows a structured approach to ensure all necessary checks are performed:
No, but companies in the financial sector and other regulated industries must follow CDD requirements under applicable laws.
KYC (Know Your Customer) is a part of the CDD process that focuses on customer identity verification, whereas CDD also includes risk assessment and ongoing monitoring.
EDD is required when a customer poses a higher risk, such as being a PEP or having ties to high-risk countries.
This varies by jurisdiction, but generally, data must be stored for at least five years after the customer relationship ends.
Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, legal action, and reputational damage.
Customer due diligence is a crucial component in maintaining a secure and regulated financial environment. By having a clear and effective process, businesses can minimise risks and contribute to a more transparent and responsible business climate.
Complying with CDD requirements is not just about avoiding legal consequences—it is also essential for building trust and protecting the financial system from abuse.
With the right tools and strategies, businesses can ensure they stay ahead in the fight against financial crime.