A reference library of money laundering typologies covering the placement, layering, and integration stages. Each entry includes a plain-English definition, detection signals, real-world examples, regulatory basis, and an FAQ block. Built and maintained by a CAMS-certified AML professional.
Structuring breaks large cash deposits into smaller amounts to evade reporting thresholds. Definition, 12 detection signals, US/UK/CA rules, and how to investigate.
Read typology →Smurfing uses multiple individuals (smurfs) to make sub-threshold cash deposits aggregated into a single account. Definition, mechanics, and detection signals.
Read typology →Layering is the second stage of money laundering, designed to obscure the source of illicit funds through multiple transactions. Definition, methods, and red flags.
Read typology →Integration is the final stage of money laundering, where cleaned funds re-enter the legitimate economy. Detection signals across real estate, business investment, and luxury assets.
Read typology →Placement is the first stage of money laundering: introducing illicit cash into the financial system. Methods, detection signals, and how regulators target it.
Read typology →Money mule accounts launder fraud and laundering proceeds through pass-through transfers. Definition, 10 detection signals, common typologies, investigation steps.
Read typology →Cuckoo smurfing exploits legitimate customer accounts expecting incoming funds. Used to settle informal value transfer system (IVTS) flows. Detection signals and examples.
Read typology →Trade-based money laundering moves value through international trade via over/under-invoicing, phantom shipments, and misdescription. FATF-recognized methods and red flags.
Read typology →Round-tripping moves funds offshore and back into the originating jurisdiction as apparent foreign investment or loan proceeds. Detection signals and case patterns.
Read typology →Shell companies with no genuine economic activity are used to layer and integrate illicit funds. Detection signals, case patterns, and beneficial ownership investigation.
Read typology →Pig-butchering blends romance fraud with fake crypto investment platforms. The largest single fraud-loss category to FBI IC3. Mechanics, signals, and intervention.
Read typology →Funnel accounts receive many small cash deposits across geographies and disburse in bulk withdrawals. FinCEN typology, drug-proceeds laundering, detection signals.
Read typology →