REPORTING FINANCIAL CRIME IN SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS: KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

In a bid to combat financial crime, the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC), the White Collar Crime Unit (WCCU), and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) are urging citizens and residents of Saint Kitts and Nevis to report any suspicious financial activities.

JOB SEARCH SCAMS: BE AWARE OF THE RED FLAGS

Warning Signs

The local authorities have warned against job search scams that are being offered online through websites and social media platforms. These scams typically target individuals who are interested in working from home or earning extra income, and often involve “unusually high” or “unrealistic” wages for minimal tasks.

Some of the red flags associated with these scams include:

• Perpetrators using social media direct messages only to communicate and distribute tasks
• Payment received through wire transfers and mobile transactions
• Instructing victims to withdraw money immediately after it is transferred into their account
• Requesting personal information, including banking details, before sending an official confirmation of employment
• Not sharing normal company details such as a website or physical address

REPORTING FINANCIAL CRIME: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Reporting Options

If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a job search scam or any other form of financial crime, it is essential to report it to the authorities immediately.

The WCCU can be contacted via email at wccu@skninfo.com or fscu@skninfo.com, or by telephone at 467-1952/3/4 or 662-4723.

MONEY LAUNDERING CHARGES: THE PENALTIES

Failure to Report

Failure to report financial crime can result in a money laundering charge, which carries penalties outlined in Section 4(1) of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

By reporting suspicious activities and being vigilant, you are helping to combat financial crime in Saint Kitts and Nevis.