60. What is the first step that an investigator should take when beginning a financial investigation into a potential suspicious activity?
Answer: C
Gathering and assessing internal sources of information is the first step an investigator should take.
The first step an investigator should take when beginning a financial investigation is gathering and assessing internal sources of information, which includes reviewing information obtained from the customer, transactions, and their value and volume.
A) Determining whether the potential suspicious activity is consistent with the customer's transactional behavior, nature of business, and occupation
While determining consistency with transactional behavior is important, it is not the first step. This process requires prior knowledge and data that can only be obtained through initial information gathering.
B) Identifying and reviewing external information, including online presence, customer-related entities, and relevant media
Reviewing external information is valuable in understanding the broader context of the investigation, but it should follow the internal assessment. Internal sources provide foundational insights that inform what external information to pursue.
C) Gathering and assessing internal sources of information, including information obtained from the customer, transactions, and value and volume
This option is correct as it emphasizes the importance of starting with internal data. Assessing internal sources allows investigators to establish a baseline of the customer's activity, which is crucial for identifying anomalies and determining whether further investigation is warranted.
D) Contacting the country's financial intelligence unit's (FIU's) officers to seek advice on whether the potential suspicious activity is indeed a suspicious activity
Contacting the FIU may be necessary at a later stage, but it is not the initial step. Investigators must first gather internal information to inform any inquiries they might wish to make with external bodies like the FIU.
Conclusion
The correct answer, gathering and assessing internal sources of information, is vital as it provides the necessary context for any potential suspicious activity. This foundational step allows investigators to make informed decisions about further actions, whereas the other options either follow this step or do not directly address the initial phase of an investigation. By starting with internal data, investigators can effectively build a case and identify necessary next steps.