What are Typologies?

In the AML/CFT context, the term “typologies” refers to the various techniques used to launder money or finance terrorism. Criminals are very creative in developing methods to launder money and finance terrorism. Money laundering and terrorism financing typologies in any given location are heavily influenced by the economy, financial markets, and anti-money laundering/counter financing of terrorism regimes. Consequently, methods vary from place to place and over time.




Those involved in the fight against money laundering or the financing of terrorism rely on the most current information on typologies. FATF members provide one another and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Secretariat annually with observations based on recent cases or studies of particular subject areas. FATF collects this information and attempts to describe the trends in order to be in a position to adapt recommendations to specifically address money laundering and terrorist financing risks. FATF also informs the public at large by publishing annual typology reports on its webpage.