What is crucial to include when writing a SAR?

When writing a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR), it is essential to include clear and concise information. SARs are formal reports filed by financial institutions and other obligated entities when they detect suspicious activity that may indicate money laundering or other financial crimes. The primary purpose of these reports is to provide law enforcement with actionable intelligence.

Clear and concise information helps ensure that the details of the suspicious activity are easily understood by investigators. It facilitates prompt and efficient analysis and follow-up by law enforcement agencies. Including too much irrelevant information or overly complex language can obfuscate the core issues, reducing the report's effectiveness.

In contrast, including tentative details and speculation can mislead law enforcement and impair their ability to act based on the report. Extensive background history of the customer may be unnecessary and could distract from the essential elements of the suspicious activity being reported. Personal opinions about the customer are not appropriate for a SAR, as they can introduce bias and subjectivity, which could undermine the factual basis of the report. Therefore, focusing on clear and concise information is vital to the integrity and utility of a SAR.