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Ready to understand the consequences of neglecting to stop fraudulent activities in the UK?

Corporate criminal offence of overlooking fraud set to remodel compliance terrain for businesses

Brace yourself for understanding the implications of the 'failure to prevent fraud' infraction in...
Brace yourself for understanding the implications of the 'failure to prevent fraud' infraction in the United Kingdom.

Ready to understand the consequences of neglecting to stop fraudulent activities in the UK?

In a significant legal development, the Bribery Act has established a new offence that companies must prepare for in order to comply. This offence is specifically designed to address fraudulent activities benefiting associated persons of companies.

The new offence is a crucial addition to the Bribery Act, and it is broader in scope and has stringent requirements. It holds companies accountable for fraudulent activities carried out by associated persons, such as employees, agents, or subsidiaries.

Given the importance of understanding the implications and preparing for compliance, we aim to address some common questions about this significant legal development.

So far, no specific companies have publicly reported in 2025 that they are focusing on preparations for the new corporate crime "failure to prevent fraud." However, the Berlin Hyp, a prominent German bank, has implemented a whistleblower system to detect potential wrongdoing, which could relate to fraud prevention efforts.

The new offence is considered a significant legal development due to its potential impact on companies and the need for rigorous compliance measures. It highlights the importance of robust internal controls and a strong culture of integrity within organisations.

In conclusion, the new offence for fraudulent activities benefiting associated persons of companies is a crucial aspect of the Bribery Act. Companies should take steps to understand the implications and prepare for compliance to avoid potential legal consequences.

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