Understanding PEP Screening

What is a PEP?

A Politically Exposed Person is someone entrusted with a prominent public function. The category exists because such roles can correlate with corruption and misuse of influence.

PEP status is not an accusation of wrongdoing; it is a risk label that triggers deeper verification.

Regulatory core expectations

Identify PEPs and their close associates, apply enhanced measures where required, obtain senior management approval for certain foreign PEPs, and keep records demonstrating ongoing monitoring.

Policies should define how long former PEPs remain elevated and what evidence supports downgrade decisions.