What is Positive Match?

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Multiple Choice

What is Positive Match?

Positive Match is the definitive hit you get in sanctions screening when a customer or a transaction clearly corresponds to someone or an entity listed on OFAC’s sanctions lists (for example, Specially Designated Nationals). When this occurs, the firm must take immediate protective actions—typically blocking or rejecting the transaction and escalating the matter to compliance, along with making the required OFAC reporting. This concept is distinct from the lists themselves. An SDN is one of OFAC’s designated lists; a Positive Match is the result of comparing a customer or transaction against that list and finding a definite hit. If there isn’t a clear match, you’d wait for further review rather than taking blocking action.

Positive Match is the definitive hit you get in sanctions screening when a customer or a transaction clearly corresponds to someone or an entity listed on OFAC’s sanctions lists (for example, Specially Designated Nationals). When this occurs, the firm must take immediate protective actions—typically blocking or rejecting the transaction and escalating the matter to compliance, along with making the required OFAC reporting.

This concept is distinct from the lists themselves. An SDN is one of OFAC’s designated lists; a Positive Match is the result of comparing a customer or transaction against that list and finding a definite hit. If there isn’t a clear match, you’d wait for further review rather than taking blocking action.

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