One way is by denying them access to the things they need – for example we’ve worked with bank note wholesalers to limit the availability in the UK of the €500 note. Without access to the highest denomination note in the EU, criminals wanting to move large volumes of cash out of the country and out of view have to resort to other riskier methods.

We also work with industry, providing intelligence to specific sectors. This raises awareness of the methods criminals might use to target a particular business or weaknesses within a sector that need to be addressed. It is a challenging area and SOCA understands perfectly well the temptation for SMEs to turn a blind eye, particularly in tough times when an order is an order.

Some businesses in the print sector provide us with valuable information on criminal activity. Others allow the lure of new ventures to obscure the sinister motives of customers. Some knowingly assist criminals, as we saw when the Brown brothers were sentenced recently (PrintWeek, 15 April).

Businesses that do not think about the implications and risks, and fail to protect themselves, will be a target for criminals – the risks can be reputational, financial and legal. There are specific offences of intentionally or recklessly assisting the commission of a crime that carry significant penalties in terms of imprisonment and fines. Similarly, financially benefiting or receiving funds from illicit activity may lead to prosecution and assets being confiscated, not only from those implicated in a crime, but also potentially their families.

Protecting your business
SOCA’s advice is, first and foremost: know your customer. Ask for ID and verification documents that you are happy with. Do not accept cash in large sums from someone you don’t know. This could be seen as money laundering if the product or service does not match the price. Cashless transactions through the banks involve an audit trail that deters criminals. If you have taken cash from someone who turns out to be a criminal and cannot be found, you may find yourself in a difficult position.

If you are unsure about a new client do an internet search to verify that they are registered with Companies House. Checking with credit agencies will also highlight warning signals such as the absence of any apparent trading history.
Finally, let us know if you are asked to provide services or kit to someone you think may be involved in counterfeiting or other frauds. If it’s not a normal business transaction, be suspicious and contact Crimestoppers. You don’t have to give your name.

For more information on the threats posed by organised criminals and ways to protect your business, visit SOCA’s website, www.soca.gov.uk

Andy Baker is deputy director of the Serious Organised Crime Agency