Which of the following is NOT a method used to detect money laundering?

Encouraging customer deposits does not serve as a method for detecting money laundering. Instead, it is a business activity aimed at increasing a financial institution's capital base.

In the context of anti-money laundering (AML), effective detection methods involve thoroughly analyzing activities that may indicate suspicious behavior. Reviewing transaction histories for anomalies is crucial as it helps identify unusual patterns that could signify money laundering activities, such as unexpected spikes in transactions or inconsistencies with known customer profiles. Monitoring large cash withdrawals is also a common practice because such activities often raise red flags, especially if they occur in a manner inconsistent with the customer's typical banking behavior. Performing background checks on customers is another foundational AML strategy, as it allows institutions to assess the legitimacy of their clients and detect any potential risks associated with their financial activities.

Thus, while encouraging customer deposits is part of normal business operations, it does not contribute to the detection of money laundering, distinguishing it from the other response options that are directly related to AML practices.