FUTURE OF
FINCRIME SKILLS 2025

VIRTUAL EVENT | MARCH 12-13, 2025

ABOUT THE EVENT

Fincrime Eras: Past, Present, and Future of Fincrime Skills is a comprehensive two-day online training event designed to equip financial crime compliance professionals with the critical skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of financial crimes. Tailored for financial institutions, law enforcement, and regulatory personnel, this event will delve into the historical progression of financial crimes, current challenges, and emerging threats, offering a robust understanding of both the foundational and cutting-edge skills required in the fight against financial crime.

Over the course of the two days, participants will engage with expert-led sessions on key topics such as anti-money laundering (AML), sanctions compliance, fraud detection, and regulatory trends. The training will emphasize practical skills, from implementing effective compliance programs to leveraging technology for advanced financial crime detection. Attendees will also gain insight into the future direction of financial crime risks, including cyber-enabled crimes, cryptocurrency challenges, and global regulatory developments.

Whether you are looking to enhance your current role or position yourself for future growth, Fincrime Eras offers actionable knowledge and skills to ensure your continued success in the field of financial crime compliance.

 

Top Sessions

Crime on the High Seas - Navigating Maritime Shipping Sanctions Evasion Risks

Comparing the Approaches: A Deep Dive into Law Enforcement, AML, and Fraud Investigations in Financial Crimes Compliance

Protecting your Customers - How to talk to victims of scams

Pathway to Becoming a Terrorist Finance Investigator: Skills, Strategies, and Career Insights

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AGENDA

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Welcome and Keynote

10:15 AM – 11:30 AM
Crime on the High Seas - Maritime Shipping, Sanctions Evasion

As global trade relies heavily on maritime shipping, it has also become a key avenue for sanctions evasion and illicit financial activities. This session delves into the tactics used to circumvent sanctions through deceptive shipping practices, including ship-to-ship transfers, vessel flag changes, and falsified cargo documentation.
Attendees will gain insights into red flags and indicators of sanctions evasion, explore case studies of recent enforcement actions, and learn effective strategies for monitoring and mitigating risks in the maritime sector. Led by experts in sanctions compliance and risk, this session is essential for compliance officers, financial investigators, and risk managers looking to strengthen their organization’s defenses against high-seas sanctions evasion.
Join us to navigate the complexities of maritime shipping risks and enhance your compliance toolkit in the fight against global financial crime.

11:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Unlocking the Power of Open Source Intelligence in Corporate Searches
OSINT for Corporate Searches

In the digital age, Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) has become an invaluable asset for financial crime compliance teams conducting corporate investigations. This webinar will explore how OSINT tools and techniques can enhance the scope, speed, and accuracy of investigations, enabling compliance professionals to uncover hidden connections, detect suspicious patterns, and identify risks in corporate structures and transactions.
Join our experts as they guide you through best practices for utilizing OSINT in corporate due diligence, discuss common pitfalls, and provide actionable insights on incorporating OSINT into your compliance framework effectively. Whether you're new to OSINT or seeking to optimize your current approach, this session will equip you with essential skills to strengthen your investigative toolkit.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Protecting your Customers - What works and how to talk to victims of scams

The House Always Wins? The State of Play in Casino and Gaming AML ComplianceNetworking and Discussion

In today’s digital age, financial institutions are on the front lines of protecting customers from fraud and scams. When a customer becomes a victim, knowing how to communicate with empathy and clarity is essential for building trust and providing effective support.
This session will equip customer service teams, fraud investigators, and compliance professionals with the skills and strategies needed to handle these sensitive conversations. Participants will learn how to recognize the emotional impact of scams on victims, use language that provides reassurance and support, and offer practical steps for recovery and future protection.
Experts will share best practices for handling difficult situations, managing distressed customers, and empowering them with resources to prevent future scams. Join us to improve your approach to customer interactions and enhance your institution’s reputation as a trusted ally in fraud prevention and recovery.

2:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Navigating the Dark Web: Investigating Fullz, Walkers, and Innys in Financial Crimes

The dark web serves as a hub for illicit activities, with terms like "Fullz," "Walkers," and "Innys" representing some of the most common tools and tactics used by cyber-criminals to perpetrate fraud and identity theft. In this session, participants will explore the intricacies of dark web investigations, focusing on how to identify and counter these specific threats.
Our expert speakers will demystify dark web terminology, demonstrate how investigators can track down "Fullz" (full identity profiles for sale), and examine the roles of "Walkers" (individuals used to cash out stolen funds) and "Innys" (internal contacts leveraged for insider fraud).
Attendees will gain actionable insights into investigative techniques, essential tools, and best practices for disrupting these criminal networks and protecting their organizations from dark web-enabled threats. Ideal for financial crime investigators, cybersecurity professionals, and compliance officers, this session offers valuable knowledge for those looking to stay one step ahead of emerging threats.

3:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Speed Networking

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Comparing the Approaches: A Deep Dive into Law Enforcement, AML, and Fraud Investigations in Financial Crimes Compliance

Financial crimes investigations encompass a variety of approaches depending on the role, focus, and objectives of the investigator. In this session, we will analyze the unique methodologies, challenges, and goals of different types of investigators—including law enforcement, AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance teams, and fraud investigators inside financial institutions.
Attendees will gain insights into how each group contributes to the broader fight against financial crime, from law enforcement's pursuit of criminal prosecution to AML teams’ focus on regulatory compliance and fraud investigators’ efforts to detect and prevent losses.
Through case studies and expert insights, this session will highlight the distinct but interconnected nature of these investigative roles, offering practical knowledge for compliance professionals looking to enhance collaboration and streamline investigations across functions. Whether you're in financial crime compliance or interested in understanding the multi-faceted nature of these investigations, this webinar will provide valuable perspectives and actionable takeaways.

5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Welcome Reception

Join us at the end of the first day for a relaxed 30-minute welcome reception, the perfect chance to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and industry leaders in a casual setting. Share insights from the day's sessions while meeting peers who are as passionate about the future of financial crime compliance as you are.
This is a great opportunity to foster new connections, revisit thought-provoking topics from the day, and set the stage for the rest of the event. We look forward to welcoming you and kicking off a productive, inspiring gathering together!
 

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
AI in Financial Crimes Compliance: Balancing the Good and the Evil

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized financial crime compliance, offering powerful tools to detect fraud, monitor transactions, and streamline investigations. With these advancements come potential risks, as bad actors can also harness AI for criminal purposes.
This session explores both the "good" and "evil" sides of AI, equipping compliance officers with insights into how AI can be a force for both enhanced compliance and sophisticated crime. Experts will delve into real-world applications of AI in combating financial crime, from anomaly detection and predictive analysis to the latest in automated risk assessments.
We will also examine the darker side, discussing how criminals use AI for money laundering, identity theft, and fraud. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of AI’s dual impact, best practices for responsible AI implementation, and strategies for staying ahead in this AI-powered landscape. This session is essential for compliance officers looking to maximize AI's benefits while guarding against emerging risks.

9:10 AM – 10:25 AM
Leveraging OSINT in Financial Investigations: Balancing Risk Appetite with Actionable Intelligence

Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) has become an invaluable resource for financial investigations, providing critical insights that enhance due diligence, identify suspicious activities, and uncover hidden connections. As with any intelligence tool, the use of OSINT must align with your firm's risk appetite and compliance standards.
In this webinar, we’ll explore how OSINT can strengthen investigative strategies while maintaining a balanced approach to risk management. Attendees will learn practical methods for incorporating OSINT effectively within their firm’s risk tolerance, from monitoring social media and public records to assessing potential reputational risks.
Industry experts will share best practices for gathering, verifying, and leveraging OSINT data responsibly, ensuring compliance with regulatory expectations and protecting your organization. This session is ideal for compliance officers, investigators, and risk managers looking to harness OSINT’s potential without overstepping their firm’s risk boundaries.

10:35 AM – 11:35 AM
Pathway to Becoming a Terrorist Finance Investigator: Skills, Strategies, and Career Insights

In an increasingly complex global landscape, financial institutions play a critical role in identifying and disrupting terrorist financing networks. This webinar provides an in-depth look at how to build a career as a Terrorist Finance Investigator, focusing on the specialized skills, analytical techniques, and knowledge required to excel in this crucial role.
Attendees will gain insight into the core responsibilities of a terrorist finance investigator, the tools and methodologies used to trace illicit financial flows, and the importance of regulatory compliance and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
Join industry experts as they share practical advice on starting and advancing in this career path, from foundational skills to advanced investigative strategies, and learn how you can make a direct impact in the fight against terrorism financing. This session is ideal for compliance professionals, AML specialists, and anyone interested in pursuing a specialized role within financial crime investigation.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
ACFCS Demo & Certification Spotlight

The House Always Wins? The State of Play in Casino and Gaming AML ComplianceNetworking and Discussion

Curious about how the ACFCS Certification can elevate your career in financial crime compliance and investigations? Join us for a session that provides a hands-on demonstration of the ACFCS Certification process, covering key features, exam format, study materials, and valuable resources that support your journey to certification.
This session will provide an overview of essential topics covered, and showcase tools to help you succeed, whether you're pursuing expertise in AML, fraud, cyber crime, or compliance. ACFCS experts will answer questions and discuss how this certification equips professionals with the practical knowledge and skills needed to stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of financial crime.
Perfect for those considering certification, this demo will offer insights into how ACFCS credentials can help you achieve your career goals and make an impact in your organization.

12:20 PM – 1:20 PM
Filing Effective Fraud and Scam SARs: Strengthening Investigations for Law Enforcement

Filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) on fraud and scam activities is critical to supporting law enforcement investigations and disrupting criminal networks. This webinar will provide a comprehensive guide on crafting detailed, high-quality SARs that highlight key elements in fraud and scam cases, ensuring that they meet regulatory requirements and provide actionable intelligence to law enforcement.
Participants will learn best practices for identifying fraud indicators, structuring reports, and emphasizing details that aid investigators in following financial trails. Experts will also discuss common pitfalls to avoid and share insights on what law enforcement agencies look for in effective SARs. This session is ideal for compliance officers, fraud analysts, and financial investigators seeking to enhance their SAR reporting practices to maximize impact and support law enforcement’s fight against financial crime.

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Enhancing Investigative Insight: Critical Thinking Skills for Law Enforcement and Financial Crime Analysts

Effective investigation requires more than data—it demands a sharp, analytical mind capable of connecting dots, identifying patterns, and making sound decisions in high-stakes scenarios. This webinar focuses on developing critical thinking skills essential for investigators and analysts working in law enforcement and financial institutions.
Participants will explore practical strategies to enhance cognitive agility, recognize and mitigate biases, and apply structured reasoning to complex cases. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, this session will guide you in sharpening your analytical toolkit, helping you move beyond surface-level findings to uncover deeper insights and strengthen case outcomes.
Perfect for both new and seasoned professionals, this session offers valuable techniques to elevate your investigative approach and improve accuracy and efficiency in financial and criminal investigations.

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Speed Networking

Enhance your conference experience with a fast-paced, 30-minute speed networking session designed to help you connect with fellow professionals in financial crime compliance. In this engaging session, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a series of new contacts, exchange ideas, and build relationships with peers from diverse backgrounds and organizations.
Bring your business cards, elevator pitch, and enthusiasm as you rotate through brief, focused conversations that could lead to valuable connections, collaborations, and career opportunities. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned expert, this session offers a fun and efficient way to expand your professional network!

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Ask a Regulator: Insights from a Financial Crime Compliance Jobs Panel

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to engage with industry leaders and regulatory experts in this "Ask a Regulator" panel on careers in financial crime compliance. This interactive session brings together seasoned professionals, including a regulator, to discuss the evolving landscape of financial crime roles, skill sets in demand, and pathways to success in compliance careers.
Panelists will share insider perspectives on what regulators expect from compliance teams, how to excel in various fincrime roles, and the steps you can take to advance your career in this critical field.
Whether you're new to the industry or looking to pivot within fincrime compliance, this session offers valuable insights and the chance to ask questions directly to experienced professionals and a regulatory representative. Don’t miss this chance to learn what it takes to thrive in financial crime compliance today.

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Closing Reception

Wrap up an inspiring day at the ACFCS Future of FinCrime Skills conference by joining us for a lively closing reception! This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with peers, and reflect on the key insights and new strategies gained throughout the event.
Whether you’re looking to solidify new connections, discuss innovative ideas, or simply relax after an action-packed day, this reception promises a memorable close to an exciting event focused on the future of fincrime. We look forward to celebrating the shared commitment to advancing our industry with you!

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Victor Cardona

Senior Vice President, BSA Officer

Golden State Bank

WHY ATTEND?

Financial crime compliance officers should attend Fincrime Eras: Past, Present, and Future of Fincrime Skills for several key reasons:

  • Stay Ahead of Emerging Threats: Financial crimes are constantly evolving with advancements in technology and the rise of new criminal schemes such as cybercrime and cryptocurrency-related fraud. This training offers deep insights into current and future risks, helping compliance officers stay ahead of emerging threats and trends.
  • Comprehensive Skill Building: The event covers the full spectrum of financial crime compliance, from traditional practices like anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions compliance to cutting-edge skills involving data analytics, artificial intelligence, and the use of blockchain. This ensures participants leave with well-rounded expertise to tackle complex compliance challenges.
  • Expert-Led Training: Participants will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, law enforcement, and regulators with extensive experience in combating financial crime. The expert insights and best practices shared during the sessions will help officers strengthen their compliance programs and decision-making.
  • Career Advancement: In a rapidly changing field, staying up to date on the latest regulatory expectations and technological advancements is crucial for career progression. Attendees will gain valuable, practical knowledge that can help them excel in their roles and position themselves for future career growth.
  • Networking Opportunities: Attendees will interact with peers from financial institutions, law enforcement, and regulatory bodies, allowing for valuable networking and collaboration. This helps foster relationships that can lead to future partnerships and opportunities.
  • Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management: Understanding the evolving regulatory landscape is crucial for reducing compliance risks. This event provides updates on global regulations and compliance best practices to ensure officers are well-prepared to meet regulatory expectations and mitigate institutional risk.

By attending Fincrime Eras, financial crime compliance officers will enhance their expertise, position themselves as leaders in the field, and ensure they are equipped to protect their institutions from present and future financial crime threats.

 

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

The Future of FinCrime Skills is designed particularly with mid-level investigators, analysts and similar roles in mind, though almost anyone with responsibility for financial crime prevention and detection will find value. For roles with a responsibility for a wide range of financial crime risk, this is a can’t-miss event. Some examples include:  

  • Financial Crime Compliance (FCC) officers, managers, and analysts
  • Law enforcement
  • AML officers, managers, directors, analysts
  • Directors, analysts and other roles in financial intelligence units
  • Chief Compliance Officers
  • Internal and external auditors
  • Fraud managers, investigators and analysts
  • Professionals in threat intelligence roles
  • Regulators
  • Investigators or analysts in intelligence agencies or military with a nexus to financial crime