What types of systems should auditors request access to during an AML audit?

During an AML audit, it is essential to request access to transaction monitoring, transaction screening, name screening, and Know Your Customer (KYC) systems because these systems are directly related to the organization's ability to detect and prevent money laundering activities. Transaction monitoring systems analyze patterns in financial transactions to identify suspicious behavior. Transaction screening and name screening systems help ensure that individuals and entities involved in transactions are not associated with illicit activities, while KYC systems verify the identities of customers and assess their risk profiles.

These systems are critical for evaluating the effectiveness of the organization's anti-money laundering controls and compliance with regulatory requirements. Access to this data enables auditors to assess the robustness of the organization’s AML program, review historical and real-time transaction data, and ensure that adequate controls are in place to identify and report suspicious activities.

In contrast, marketing and sales systems, executive reporting tools, and human resources management systems do not provide the necessary information for evaluating AML controls and compliance. These systems, while important for other business operations, do not directly contribute to the detection and prevention of money laundering, making them less relevant for the scope of an AML audit.