> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.annature.com.au/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# AML & CTF screening checks

AML & CTF screening checks are an **opt-in** addition to [base identity verification](/documentation/identity-verification/base-identity-verification). They help you meet Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) obligations by assessing an individual against global criminal and financial intelligence sources.

Screening is essential for businesses operating in regulated sectors — such as accounting, financial services, and real estate — where identity verification must include a risk assessment.

To include screening when creating a verification via the API, set `screening` to `true` on the [Create a verification](/api-reference/verifications/create-verification) endpoint.

## How it works

When an individual completes a verification with screening enabled, Annature securely collects their identity information — typically full name, date of birth, address, and nationality — and submits it to ComplyCube, our global identity screening partner.

ComplyCube then performs a real-time AML & CTF screening across a wide range of global databases. The individual’s identity is assessed for potential matches in various risk categories, and the outcome is returned as a pass or fail result for each one.

## What is AML & CTF screening?

AML & CTF screening refers to the process of comparing an individual’s identity information against international databases and intelligence sources to identify potential involvement in criminal, financial, or politically sensitive activity.

This helps businesses identify individuals who may pose a financial crime risk, be subject to international sanctions, or be involved in corruption, terrorism financing, or other illicit activities.

## Screening categories

Screening results are reported independently across several categories. For a full breakdown of each category and its subcomponents, see:

* [Sanctions & watchlists](/documentation/screening-categories/sanctions-and-watchlists)
* [Politically exposed persons](/documentation/screening-categories/politically-exposed-persons)
* [Adverse media](/documentation/screening-categories/adverse-media)
* [Other lists](/documentation/screening-categories/other-lists)

## Screening sources

ComplyCube’s screening platform aggregates data from:

* Government departments and law enforcement bodies
* International regulators and intergovernmental organisations
* Global financial crime databases
* Reputable media and risk intelligence feeds

All screenings are continuously updated to reflect the most current global data and regulatory changes.

## Benefits

* **AML & CTF compliance**: Helps meet obligations under Australian law and FATF guidelines
* **Targeted risk assessment**: Screens across sanctions, PEPs, media, and criminal intelligence
* **Fast and reliable**: Screening results are usually returned in under 5 seconds
* **Clear results**: Each screening category is returned with a simple pass or fail outcome
* **Seamless workflow**: Verification and screening occur in the background with no extra steps for the individual

## Use cases

AML & CTF screening is recommended for any use case where AML & CTF due diligence is required or expected, including:

* **Accountants and registered tax agents**: Verifying client identities under AML & CTF and TPB requirements
* **Real estate agencies**: Conducting due diligence for high-value property transactions
* **Finance professionals**: Screening clients or investors during onboarding
* **Legal professionals**: Meeting obligations under trust account and AML legislation