The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FINCEN) is the central authority where obligated institutions report unusual financial transactions.
FINCEN works with public and private partners, both nationally and internationally, to help prevent and combat money laundering and related financial crimes. It supports the integrity of the financial system by collecting meaningful financial intelligence and identifying emerging risks and trends to share with relevant stakeholders.
Institutions such as banks, notaries, payment service providers, casinos, and art dealers are required to monitor and report transactions that may involve money laundering or other financial offenses.
FINCEN analyzes these reports to determine whether transactions are suspicious. If so, the information is shared with law enforcement and other authorized agencies, contributing to a stronger and more secure financial system.
The financial system is vast, international, and constantly evolving. It offers opportunities for trade and growth, but also for criminal misuse. Activities like drug trafficking, arms dealing, fraud, human exploitation, and environmental crimes often rely on moving illicit funds.
When criminal money flows through the financial system, it supports illegal activity, distorts fair competition, and erodes trust in financial institutions. While the full scale is difficult to measure, estimates suggest billions of euros may be involved annually.
Maintaining a clean financial system is a shared responsibility. FINCEN and its partners, including reporting institutions and investigative services, play a key role in identifying and disrupting these illicit financial flows.
© FINCEN Nederlands 2025
Part of the European Union