The FCA Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) applies to finance and investment firms in the UK. COBS covers assessing product or service suitability for clients. Our COBS for Suitability Training Course explains the FCA's Conduct of Business Rules for advising and dealing with investments for retail clients on a discretionary basis.
Recognise what the suitability test is and when it should be applied
Know how suitability is assessed
Know what to do if the suitability test fails
Identify and apply the record-keeping requirements
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Related courses
Boost your compliance efforts with our range of courses. Varying in length and topic, our courses equip you with the tools to create an ethical and resilient workplace.
SM&CR in Practice
The Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR) is designed to improve accountability, governance and culture in financial services firms.
CeMAP Competency Refresher Training
The Certificate in Mortgage Advice & Practice (CeMAP) is a UK specific qualification issued by the London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF).
Conduct Rules for Senior Managers at Dual Regulated Firms
Under the Senior Managers Regime, all senior managers must comply with the FCA's six Individual Conduct Rules (ICRs) and four Senior Managers Rules (SMRs).
Conduct Rules for Senior Managers at FCA Solo Firms
Under the Senior Managers Regime, all senior managers must comply with the FCA's six Individual Conduct Rules (ICRs) and four Senior Managers Rules (SMRs).
FX Global Code Compliance Training Course
The FX Global Code is a set of global principles of good practice in the foreign exchange market.
Outsourcing and Third Party Risk Management Online Course
As the risk inherent to business relationships grow, regulators have been drafting and implementing outsourcing and third-party risk management rules and guidance.
Responsible Lending and Affordability Training Course
Responsible Lending and Affordability are non-negotiable principles that underpin the UK's mortgage market reform.
UK Money Markets Code Online Training Course
The UK Money Markets Code provides a set of principles to promote the integrity and effective functioning of the UK money markets.
Operational Resilience
The FCA has made operational resilience a requirement for banks, building societies, PRA-designated investment firms, enhanced scope firms and other financial institutions.
Conduct Risk
The FCA focuses on good customer outcomes and how a firm achieves this through staff conduct at all levels of the business.
CASS 7 and 7A Client Money Rules and Client Money Distribution Training Course
The rules and guidance in CASS aim to achieve the FCA's objective of ensuring that consumers are adequately protected.
Conduct Risk
The FCA focuses on good customer outcomes and how a firm achieves this through staff conduct at all levels of the business.
Data Protection Compliance Training Course
Data protection relates to how all organisations collect, use, and store personal and sensitive data.
Market Abuse Compliance E-Learning Course
The laws and regulations prohibiting market abuse apply to all employees, not only those engaged in front-office, client dealing or trading roles.
Working Safely Compliance Training Course
Awareness of health and safety procedures can prevent injuries and save lives.
Financial Sanctions Compliance E-Learning Course
Financial and economic sanctions are binding prohibitions applied by governments to prevent business transactions with certain designated persons.
Healthy Working
There are risks to your physical and mental health and wellbeing wherever you work.
Embargoes and Sanctions
Embargoes and sanctions prohibit all transactions with an entity, trading of certain commodities, or supplying critical goods.
Safeguarding the Vulnerable
Certain individuals may be unable to care for or protect themselves due to a mental illness or disability, age or other factors.
Introduction to UK Financial Regulation
NEDs are an important part of a firm's governance and provide independence and oversight.
Complaints Handling E-learning for the Insurance Sector
The number of complaints submitted in the Insurance sector has increased year on year in recent times in the UK.
Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD)
The Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD) replaced the Insurance Mediation Directive (IMD) in February 2018.
Treating Customers Fairly
Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) applies to firms in the Insurance industry.
Information Barriers
The flow of information in financial firms needs monitoring between businesses involved with private and public side activities.
Benchmarks Regulation Training Course
The FCA defines a Benchmark as an index used to determine the value of or the amount payable under a financial instrument (or contract).
MCOB - Advertising and Selling Compliance Training Course
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) Advising and Selling standards apply to businesses that advise on or arrange mortgage contracts, equity release transactions, home purchase plans or sale and rent back agreements.
Prudential Regulation Training Course for Financial Services Staff
Prudential Regulation applies to firms in financial services.
Developing Secure Applications
The way companies build software and technology systems is evolving very rapidly.
Introduction to UK Financial Regulation
Educate your employees on how the UK's financial services industry is regulated.
Financial Crime Prevention E-Learning Course for Staff
There are two kinds of financial crime.
Preventing Sexual Harassment for Managers
The new duty to prevent sexual harassment in the UK will be enforceable by employment tribunals, allowing for increased compensation for victims by up to 25% if an employer fails in their duty.
Complaints Handling FCA Compliance
The FCA has identified that the number of complaints submitted in the financial services sector has increased year on year in recent times in the UK.
Treating Customers Fairly FCA Compliance
Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) applies to firms in the financial services industry.
First Aid Awareness
Regardless of whether an injury or illness has been caused by work, it is important that employees receive immediate support.
MCOB - General Standards
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) for General Standards applies to all firms that deal with home finance.
Ethical Standards in Finance and Investment
The FCA's ethical standards apply to individuals in finance and investment.
CONC - Consumer Credit Regulations
The FCA's Consumer Credit sourcebook (CONC) applies to all firms engaged in credit-related regulatory activities in the UK.
Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II)
The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) originally aimed to increase competition and integration in markets for financial instruments.
Complaints Handling for the Mortgage Market Course
The FCA outlines complaints handling rules in the Dispute Resolution Sourcebook (DISP).
MCOB - Equity Release
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) for Equity Release applies to businesses that make recommendations or provide personalised information to customers on equity release products.
Pensions Ombudsman Complaints Handling
In the UK, the Pensions Ombudsman handles pension complaints and disputes at no cost to members of occupational and personal pension schemes.
Information Security Compliance Training Course
The security of client and internal information is critical for businesses.
Fraud Prevention E-learning Course
Fraud can have grave consequences for companies, employees, and customers.
CASS Overview
The FCA's Client Assets Sourcebook (CASS) supports Principle 10 of the FCA's Principles for Businesses.
Conflicts of Interest in Insurance
A conflict of interest is where competing interests interfere with the exercising of judgement in a relationship.
Whistleblowing for Managers (FS)
Whistleblowing refers to disclosing corrupt, illegal or fraudulent activities committed by organisations.
Complaints Handling for Managers
One of the three operational objections of the FCA is to protect consumers.
Claims Handling - General Insurance
Speed and accuracy of claims handling is a major aspect of service differentiation in this industry.
Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products (PRIIPs) Regulation for Insurance Firms
The Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products (PRIIPs) Regulation has applied since 1 January 2018.
Prudential Regulation for Insurance Firms
Educate your employees on the Prudential Standards for financial businesses in the UK.
Understanding Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF) in Financial Services for Managers
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF) is a corporate offence that holds organisations criminally liable if they do not have reasonable measures in place to stop fraud committed by someone acting on their behalf.
Directive on Administrative Cooperation in the Field of Taxation (DAC6)
The EU Directive on Administrative Cooperation in the Field of Taxation (DAC6) covers cross-border arrangements.
CASS Overview for Insurance
The FCA's Client Assets Sourcebook (CASS) supports Principle 10 of the FCA's Principles for Businesses.
Preventing Sexual Harassment Training Course
Companies rightly have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment, and violations may lead not only to disciplinary action but also to perpetrator prosecution.
Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing E-learning Course
To prevent criminal activity, nearly all countries in the world have committed themselves to extremely tough laws against money laundering and terrorist financing.
Modern Slavery Compliance Training Course
Modern slavery is a serious crime with harsh penalties.
Preventing the Facilitation of Tax Evasion
Tax laws don't only apply to those who calculate or manage taxes.
Bribery Prevention Compliance E-learning Course
Despite a worldwide effort to eradicate bribery, it is still prevalent in many countries and presents a real risk for businesses.
Good Outcomes for Vulnerable Customers
Companies have a legal obligation to identify the signs of vulnerability and ensure that vulnerable individuals are treated fairly.
Overview of the Consumer Duty
The FCA's Consumer Duty is a new standard which addresses the conduct of firms.
Conflicts of Interest in Asset Management
The FCA outlines its expectations that asset management firms establish and maintain an effective framework to identify, control and review conflicts of interest.
Training and Competence
Training and Competence (T&C) forms an important part of UK regulations under the FCA.
Overview of SM&CR for FCA Solo Firms
Our SMCR Overview training course will help your employees understand the key steps needed to comply with the regime.
MCOB - APRC, Shortfalls and Charges
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) for the Annual Percentage Rate of Charge (APRC), shortfalls, and charges apply to home finance businesses.
Contract Certainty
Contract certainty means that each party will know the exact details of a product at the time when it is being sold, without there being any misunderstandings at a later date It was developed in response to regulatory concerns about the 'deals now – details later' culture of the insurance industry.
Overview of SM&CR for Dual Regulated Firms
Our SMCR Overview training course will help your employees understand the key steps needed to comply with the regime.
Conduct Rules for Non-Executive Directors (NEDs)
NEDs are an important part of a firm's governance and provide independence and oversight.
An Introduction to Solvency UK
Solvency II introduced a new, harmonised EU-wide insurance regulatory regime.
CASS 6 - Custody Rules
The rules and guidance in CASS 6 apply to a firm when it is safeguarding and administering custody assets.
CASS 8 - Mandates
Under the requirements of CASS 8, you must understand what a mandate is and how to deal with them.
Fire Warden Training
Gain a comprehensive understanding of your role as a fire warden, which encompasses not only how to respond effectively in the event of a fire but also proactive measures to prevent such incidents from occurring.
Insurance Act 2015
The Insurance Act 2015 represents the most significant reform of insurance contract law in the UK for over a century.
MCOB - Disclosures
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) for Disclosures applies to businesses involved in home finance transactions.
MCOB - Financial Promotions
The Mortgage Conduct of Business (MCOB) for Financial Promotions applies to financial promotions in the home finance business.
Mortgage Credit Directive
The EU Mortgage Credit Directive (MCD) applies to all businesses dealing with first-charge, second-charge, and buy-to-let mortgages.
Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products (PRIIPs) Regulation
The Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Product (PRIIP) Regulation affects retail investors who need to understand the complexities of these products.
AI Literacy at Work
Companies are committed to ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.
Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) and Investment Labels
The introduction of sustainability rules aims to enhance the transparency and credibility of financial products with sustainability objectives.
UCITS
Undertakings for the Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) Directive aims to offer asset managers and investors greater business opportunities.
Understanding Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF)
Learn how the Failure to Prevent Fraud offence works, what it means for our Company, and how you can help reduce risk by recognising fraud and supporting prevention procedures.
Understanding Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF) in Financial Services
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF) is a corporate offence that holds organisations criminally liable if they do not have reasonable measures in place to stop fraud committed by someone acting on their behalf.
Training and Competence
Educate your employees on the FCA's rules for training and competence of staff in the financial services business.
Overview of the Consumer Duty
Learn about the FCA's Principle 12 and the rules that flow from it, and see how you can apply Consumer Duty in your day-to-day work.
Good Outcomes for Vulnerable Customers
Companies have a legal obligation to ensure that vulnerable individuals do not suffer any detriment and are given the appropriate level of care.
CASS 15 - Payment Services and Electronic Money: Relevant Funds
CASS 15 introduces a strengthened safeguarding regime for payment services and electronic money firms, designed to better protect customer funds in the event of firm failure.
Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA)
The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is a regulatory framework set by the European Union to enhance the cybersecurity and operational resilience of financial institutions.
Meeting the Conduct Rules in FCA Solo Regulated Firms
The Conduct Rules are a fundamental aspect of the SMCR.
Meeting the Conduct Rules in Dual Regulated Firms
The Conduct Rules are a fundamental aspect of the SMCR.
Personal Conflicts of Interest
The FCA states that a firm must manage conflicts of interest between itself and its customers or other clients.
BCOBS - General Standards
The FCA Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook (BCOBS) applies to all firms that accept deposits from banking customers in the UK.
Payment Services Regulations
The Payment Services Regulations (PSRs) 2017 was introduced in 2018 and set the Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2) in motion.
Senior Management Arrangements Systems and Controls
The Senior Management Arrangements Systems and Controls (SYSC) Sourcebook apply to authorised financial services firms.
ICOBS - Providing Information and Advising
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for Providing Information and Advising applies to insurance intermediaries.
General Insurance Pricing Practices
The General Insurance Pricing Practices signal a new chapter in the FCA's focus on fairly-priced insurance products which provide real value to customers.
CASS 5 - Client Money - Insurance Distribution Activity
CASS rules apply to money belonging to all clients.
AIFM Regulations
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) was developed by the EU in order to create a harmonised framework of rules for regulating AIFMs.
Asbestos
Educate your staff on the risks posed by asbestos, the controls your Company has in place, and what you should do to manage these risks and stay safe.
Breathing Space Regulations
Breathing Space Regulations apply to creditors whose debtors are eligible for additional time to repay their debt.
CASS 10 - CASS Resolution Pack
A CASS Resolution Pack (RP) contains a specific set of documents that helps speed up client money and assets return if a firm fails.
CASS 9 - Information to Clients
Under the requirements of CASS 9, you are required to pass on certain information to clients, particularly where prime brokers, custody assets and client money are concerned.
Lone Working
Lone working offers greater flexibility, autonomy and creates a broader talent pool for businesses.
Swap Execution Facilities (SEFs) and Designated Contract Markets (DCMs)
Swap Execution Facilities (SEFs) and Designated Contract Markets (DCMs) exist as part of the US response to the financial crisis.
BCOBS - General Standards [Mutual]
The FCA Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook (BCOBS) applies to all firms that accept deposits from banking customers in the UK.
Payment Services Regulations [Mutual]
The Payment Services Regulations (PSRs) 2017 was introduced in 2018 and set the Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2) in motion.
Financial Crime Prevention
Financial crime ranges from fraud, tax evasion, bribery, market abuse, insider dealing, money-laundering, to terrorist financing.
Senior Management Arrangements Systems and Controls [Mutual]
The Senior Management Arrangements Systems and Controls (SYSC) Sourcebook apply to authorised financial services firms.
CASS 9 - Information to Clients
Under the requirements of CASS 9, you are required to pass on certain information to clients, particularly where prime brokers, custody assets and client money are concerned.
Short Selling Regulations
Short selling plays an important role in financial markets but carries regulatory obligations and risks.
Equality and Diversity E-learning Course
Making employment decisions or treating people differently based on stereotypes isn't just bad for business; it's illegal.
Fire Safety Compliance E-Learning Course
Educate your staff on the fire safety controls your Company has in place and the measures they need to take to reduce the risk of fire where you work.
ICOBS - General Matters
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for general matters applies to all firms engaged in the insurance business.
Records Management
Records management refers to employees' creation, storage, archiving, and disposal of business records.
General Office Hygiene
Educate your staff on general office hygiene protocols to reduce common viruses and infections from spreading at the workplace.
Principles for Businesses
The FCA's Principles for Businesses apply to all financial services firms in the UK regulatory system.
COBS - Client Communications and Financial Promotions
The Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) applies to financial firms in the UK that deal with client investments.
Whistleblowing in Insurance
Our Whistleblowing Training Course educates employees on reporting misconduct safely and ensures protection.
COBS - Client Categorisation
The Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) applies to financial firms in the UK that deal with client investments.
COBS - Dealing and Managing
The FCA Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) applies to financial firms in the UK.
FSCS Deposit Protection
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) safeguards customers' finances.
Fit and Proper Assessments
In order to perform a Senior Management Function (SMF), Senior Managers need to be approved by the FCA and, for dual regulated firms, the PRA.
Appointed Representatives Regulatory Responsibilities
The FCA expects companies to ensure all their appointed representatives know the provisions within the FCA handbook.
Appointed Representatives Regulatory Responsibilities for Insurance Firms
The FCA expects companies to ensure all their appointed representatives know the provisions within the FCA handbook.
COBS - Appropriateness
The FCA's Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) applies to financial firms that deal with customer investments on an execution-only basis.
COBS - Client Communications High Risk Investments
The Conduct of Business Sourcebook (COBS) rules that relate to client communication apply to all promotional communications that investment firms have with their clients and prospects.
ICOBS - Cancellation and Claims
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) applies to all non-investment insurance businesses.
ICOBS - Distance Communications
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for distance communications applies to all insurance firms that engage in distance marketing activity in the UK.
Introduction to the Perimeter Guidance Manual
PERG helps clarify when financial activities need FCA authorisation, as outlined by the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA).
SEC Rule 15a-6
To engage in securities transactions with United States (US) clients, non-US firms must comply with Rule 15a-6 requirements.
ICOBS - Providing Information and Advising
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for Providing Information and Advising applies to insurance intermediaries.
Principles for Businesses
The FCA's Principles for Businesses apply to all financial services firms in the UK regulatory system.
Principles for Businesses [Mutual]
The FCA's Principles for Businesses apply to all financial services firms in the UK regulatory system.
ICOBS - Providing Information and Advising [Mutual]
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for Providing Information and Advising applies to insurance intermediaries.
Mental Health at Work
Stress, anxiety and depression are serious health hazards in the workplace.
Whistleblowing in Financial Services
Our Whistleblowing training course educates employees on reporting misconduct safely and ensures protection.
Introduction to the Consumer Duty
The FCA's Consumer Duty is a new standard which addresses the conduct of firms.
Non-Financial Misconduct
Non-financial misconduct is behaviour that is unrelated to regulated activities, including serious offences such as harassment, bullying, sexual discrimination and sexual misconduct The FCA has indicated it is prepared to consider non-financial misconduct when assessing fitness and propriety.
BCOBS - Distance Communications
The Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook (BCOBS) applies to all firms accepting deposits from banking customers in the UK.
ICOBS - Cancellation and Claims
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) applies to all non-investment insurance businesses.
ICOBS - Distance Communications
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for distance communications applies to all insurance firms that engage in distance marketing activity in the UK.
ICOBS - General Matters
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for general matters applies to all firms engaged in the insurance business.
BCOBS - Distance Communications [Mutual]
The Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook (BCOBS) applies to all firms accepting deposits from banking customers in the UK.
ICOBS - Cancellation and Claims [Mutual]
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) applies to all non-investment insurance businesses.
ICOBS - Distance Communications [Mutual]
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for distance communications applies to all insurance firms that engage in distance marketing activity in the UK.
ICOBS - General Matters [Mutual]
The Insurance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (ICOBS) for general matters applies to all firms engaged in the insurance business.
Introduction to the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR)
The UK's financial services sector has been rocked over the past decade by scandals ranging from misselling to market manipulation.
Appropriate Use of Communication Channels
Not all communication channels are appropriate for business purposes.
Understanding Modern Slavery
Modern slavery remains a persistent, inhumane practice affecting millions through forced labour, trafficking and exploitation.
Understanding Bribery
Bribery is not always obvious and can take many subtle forms, from lavish gifts to preferential treatment.
Gifts and Hospitality
Gifts and hospitality can create a risk of actual or perceived bribery if not handled correctly.
Spot a Phishing Attempt
Phishing emails are fraudulent attempts by cybercriminals to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information.
Abuse of Position
Fraud by abuse of position occurs when someone in a position of trust dishonestly exploits their role for personal gain or to cause loss to others.
Whistleblowing
Whistleblowing is the act of reporting wrongdoing such as fraud, bribery or safety breaches to protect an organisation and its stakeholders.
Understanding Sanctions
Sanctions restrict business dealings with specific individuals organisations or countries to support global peace, human rights and crime prevention.
Money Laundering Red Flags
Detecting and reporting money laundering red flags is essential for maintaining anti-money laundering (AML) compliance.
Business Email Compromise
Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a targeted cyberattack where criminals impersonate executives or hack accounts to steal money or sensitive information.
Speak Up
Speaking up against misconduct or unethical behaviour can be challenging, but it is essential to maintaining integrity in the workplace.
Understanding Fraud
Fraud is a deliberate act of deception aimed at obtaining an unfair advantage, often causing harm to individuals or organisations.
Display Screen Equipment
Correctly setting up display screen equipment (DSE) is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing strain or injury.
Identity Fraud
Identity fraud occurs when criminals steal personal information to commit fraud, often leading to financial loss and reputational damage.
Slips and Trips
Slips and trips are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, often resulting in serious harm such as fractures or concussions.
Manual Handling
Manual handling tasks, such as lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling objects, can lead to injuries if not done correctly.
Understanding Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest is where competing interests interfere with the exercising of judgement in a relationship.
Foreign Agent Bribery Risk
Using third-party agents can expose businesses to bribery risks if due diligence is ignored.
Compliments vs Sexual Harassment
Genuine compliments can be part of a positive workplace, but inappropriate remarks can cross the line into sexual harassment.
Failing to Disclose Information
Fraud can occur when someone deliberately withholds information to gain an unfair advantage or cause loss to others.
Targets of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can occur in various forms and affects everyone in the workplace.
Crossing the Line into Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is not limited to physical actions but can also involve words, gestures and persistent unwanted attention.
Understanding Harassment
Harassment is unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating or offensive environment.
Forced Labour Indicators
Forced labour is a serious violation of human rights, often hidden within workplaces and supply chains.
Interacting on Social Media
Social media offers great opportunities for communication, but it also presents risks to data protection, security and reputation.
Deepfake Awareness
Deepfakes use artificial intelligence to create fake images, audio or videos that can deceive individuals and organisations.
Horizontal Agreements
Competition drives innovation, fair pricing and better services for customers.
Understanding Information Security
Information security is essential to protect sensitive business and customer data from unauthorised access, breaches and cyber threats.
The Three Stages of Money Laundering
Money laundering is the process criminals use to disguise illicit funds as legitimate income through placement, layering and integration.
Common Cyber Threats
Cyber threats such as phishing, malware, ransomware and unsecured networks pose significant risks to businesses.
Preventing Tipping Off
Tipping off is a criminal offence that occurs when someone under investigation for financial crime is made aware of the suspicion against them.
Understanding the GDPR
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets out key principles for handling personal data and protecting individuals' rights.
Personal Data Breaches
Personal data breaches can occur through hacking, human error or unauthorised access, leading to serious legal and reputational consequences.
Understanding Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.
Understanding Facilitation Payments
Facilitation payments are small, unofficial payments made to speed up routine services, but they are considered bribes under anti-bribery and corruption laws.
Data Protection Impact Assessments
Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) are used to evaluate our data processing activities and mitigate risks to individuals.
Zero Trust Cybersecurity
The zero trust cybersecurity model ensures IT systems remain inaccessible by default, requiring strict verification before granting access.
Bring Your Own Device Security
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies offer convenience and flexibility but also introduce cybersecurity risks.
Device Hygiene
Device hygiene is the practice of keeping digital devices secure and free from cyber threats to protect company data and networks.
Malware
Malware is malicious software designed to harm or exploit computer systems, ranging from viruses and ransomware to spyware and botnets.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files and demands payment for their release, often causing severe financial and operational damage.
Smishing
Smishing is a targeted phishing scam that uses deceptive text messages to gain sensitive information.
Spear Phishing
Spear phishing targets specific individuals with convincing emails designed to deceive them.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is a vital business tool, but it also presents security and privacy risks if not used correctly.
Vishing
Vishing is a social engineering attack where cybercriminals use phone calls to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information.
Creating Strong Passwords
Strong password protection is essential to safeguarding company systems from cyber threats such as brute force attacks and password guessing.
Multi-factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enhances security by requiring users to verify their identity through multiple authentication methods.
Reacting to Password Breaches
Password breaches can lead to unauthorised access, fraud and data theft, often resulting from weak passwords, phishing or insecure networks.
Information Classification
This training helps employees understand different levels of information classification, their restrictions and how to handle data securely.
Information Security on the Move
Handling company information securely, especially when working remotely or traveling, is essential to prevent data breaches and security risks.
Tailgating and Piggybacking
Cybersecurity is not just about digital protection but also involves securing physical access to critical systems.
Secure Web Browsing
Practicing safe web browsing helps to reduce security risks and protect sensitive information.
Supply Chain Cybersecurity
A company’s cybersecurity is only as strong as its weakest link and supply chain vulnerabilities can expose businesses to major breaches.
Transferring Information Securely
Securely transferring information is essential to protect sensitive data from breaches, legal risks and business disruptions.
Using Wi-Fi safely
Wi-Fi connectivity offers convenience but also exposes devices and data to security risks if not properly managed.
Advising Customers on Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility, including guiding customers to protect themselves from online threats.
CEO Fraud
CEO fraud is a type of Business Email Compromise where cybercriminals impersonate executives to trick employees into making payments or sharing confidential information.
Guide to Secure Remote Working
Remote work provides flexibility but also introduces cybersecurity risks that can compromise company data and systems.
Think Before You Click
Clicking on malicious links or attachments is one of the most common ways cybercriminals infect IT systems with malware.
Neurodiversity Awareness
Misunderstanding neurodiversity can leave employees unsupported and limit workplace potential.
Bribery Offences and Penalties
Bribery is a serious offence that carries severe consequences for individuals and companies.
Corrupt Hiring Practices
Bribery risks in hiring arise when jobs or internships are offered in exchange for business favours or political influence.
Controllers and Processors
The differences between data controllers and data processors are crucial to understanding data protection obligations.
Special Category Data
In many workplaces, sensitive data, including special category data, is collected and requires extra care.
GDPR Principle 1
The first principle of the GDPR requires that personal data must be processed lawfully, fairly and transparently.
GDPR Principle 2
The second principle of the GDPR, purpose limitation, requires that personal data be collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes.
GDPR Principle 3
The third principle of the GDPR, data minimisation, requires that personal data collected must be adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary.
GDPR Principle 4
The fourth principle of the GDPR, accuracy, requires that personal data must be correct, up to date and not misleading.
GDPR Principle 5
The fifth principle of the GDPR, storage limitation, requires that personal data be retained only for as long as necessary for its intended purpose.
GDPR Principle 6
The sixth principle of the GDPR, integrity and confidentiality, requires that personal data be protected against unauthorised access, loss or damage.
GDPR Principle 7
The seventh principle of the GDPR, accountability, requires organisations to take responsibility for compliance and demonstrate good governance in data protection.
GDPR and Consent
Consent is one of the six lawful bases for processing personal data under the GDPR, requiring individuals to give clear, informed and voluntary agreement.
GDPR Lawful Bases for Processing
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires organisations to have a lawful basis for processing personal data, chosen from six legal grounds.
GDPR Legitimate Interests
Legitimate interests is a flexible lawful basis for processing personal data, but it requires balancing business needs with individuals' rights.
GDPR International Transfers
The international transfer of personal data is restricted to ensure individuals' privacy rights are protected when data is sent abroad.
GDPR Individual Rights
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) grants individuals eight specific rights over their personal data, ensuring transparency and control.
GDPR Subject Access Requests
Individuals have the right to access their personal data and organisations must respond to subject access requests (SARs) within legal timeframes.
Anti-Competitive Agreements
Competition laws ensure fair business practices by preventing anti-competitive agreements that restrict market competition.
Cartels
Competition in a free market encourages businesses to innovate, improve quality and reduce prices for consumers.
Trade Association Red Flags
Trade association meetings serve legitimate purposes but can pose competition risks if sensitive business information is exchanged.
Vertical Agreements
Vertical agreements between manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers can restrict competition and harm consumers.
Online Selling Restrictions
Competition law ensures fair sales practices and prohibits restrictions that limit competition.
Resale Price Maintenance
Resale price maintenance involves manufacturers controlling how retailers price their products.
Tying and Bundling
Tying and bundling involve selling a product or service with another commitment or package.
Dawn Raids
A dawn raid is an unannounced investigation by a regulator or law enforcement agency, often related to suspected financial crimes or anti-competitive practices.
Abuse of Dominant Position
Companies with significant market power must compete fairly without distorting competition.
Risks in the Use of AI
This training highlights how AI can be used effectively while identifying and addressing potential risks.
Direct Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfairly due to characteristics like sex, age, race or disability.
Indirect Discrimination
Indirect discrimination occurs when seemingly neutral policies disadvantage certain groups based on protected characteristics like age, sex, disability, race and religion.
The Protected Characteristics
The UK's Equality Act protects individuals from discrimination based on nine protected characteristics, ensuring a fair and inclusive workplace.
Victimisation
Victimisation occurs when someone is treated unfairly for making or supporting a complaint under the Equality Act.
Stereotyping
Stereotypes are generalised beliefs about individuals or groups that can lead to prejudice and bias.
Unconscious Bias
Unconscious bias occurs when we make judgments about people based on past experiences, cultural influences or assumptions.
Understanding ESG
Companies are increasingly expected to integrate environmental, social and governance principles into their operations to attract investors.
Identifying Who is Vulnerable
Vulnerable individuals are those who face heightened risks of harm, abuse, neglect or exploitation due to various circumstances.
Screening Employees in Safeguarding Roles
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act protects children and vulnerable adults from harm by preventing unsuitable individuals from working with them.
Terrorist Financing Red Flags
Terrorist groups use legal and illegal methods to raise and move funds, often exploiting financial systems to conceal their activities.
Understanding Terrorist Financing
Terrorist groups rely on financial support from various sources, both intentional and unintentional.
Customer Due Diligence
Customer due diligence helps protect us against financial crime by verifying customer identities and understanding their business activities.
Enhanced Customer Due Diligence
Enhanced customer due diligence is required for high-risk customers, including politically exposed persons, high-value transactions and clients from high-risk jurisdictions.
Politically Exposed Persons
Politically exposed persons present a high risk of money laundering due to their influence and access to state resources.
Suspicious Activity Reporting
Employees must report any knowledge or suspicion of money laundering or terrorist financing to the Money Laundering Reporting Officer.
Unexplained Wealth Orders
Unexplained wealth orders allow law enforcement to seize assets if their owners cannot justify their wealth as coming from a legitimate source.
Customer Fraud
Customer fraud poses serious risks to businesses, from chargeback fraud to false complaints.
Supplier Fraud
Supplier fraud occurs when vendors engage in deceptive practices, such as false invoicing, overpricing or bribery.
Authorised Push Payment Fraud
Authorised push payment fraud occurs when scammers impersonate trusted figures to trick individuals into transferring money.
False Representation
Fraud by false representation happens when someone deliberately provides misleading or untrue information for personal or financial gain.
Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) introduced a new corporate offence of failure to prevent fraud.
Employee Fraud and Insider Threats
Employee fraud can take many forms, from theft and false expense claims to data misuse and conflicts of interest.
Fraud Offences and Penalties
Fraud is any dishonest action or omission intended to gain or cause a loss, regardless of whether it is temporary or permanent.
Mandatory Leave
Mandatory leave is time off that certain organisations enforce to help prevent fraud, errors and other risk incidents.
Preventing Corporate Fraud
Corporate fraud involves illegal activities committed by an organisation or individuals acting on its behalf.
The Fraud Triangle
Fraud is often committed by ordinary people who find themselves in difficult situations and make poor choices.
10 Essential Office Hygiene Practices
Hygiene is a key factor in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy workplace.
10 Steps to Healthy Working
A fast-paced work environment can take a toll on physical and mental health if risks are not managed.
COSHH
Exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace can cause serious health conditions, including respiratory diseases and skin disorders.
Electricity
Electricity is essential in the workplace, but even minor mistakes can cause serious injuries, fires or fatalities.
Fire
Fires pose a serious threat in any workplace, making fire prevention and safety measures essential.
Noise
Prolonged or excessive noise can cause stress, hearing damage and other health risks.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment is essential in minimising exposure to workplace hazards but should be the last line of defence.
Transport
Work-related driving poses significant risks, contributing to a large percentage of road accidents.
Work Equipment
Work equipment includes tools, machines and other devices used to perform tasks safely and efficiently.
Working Safely
Workplace accidents occur frequently, but many are preventable through awareness and proper safety measures.
Menopause Awareness
Menopause is a natural stage in life that can bring physical and emotional challenges and potentially affect work performance.
Mental Health at Work
Stress, anxiety and depression are major workplace health risks, accounting for over half of work-related ill-health cases.
New and Expectant Mothers at Work
When an employee is pregnant or returning from maternity leave, certain legal rights and health considerations apply.
Understanding Intellectual Property
Intellectual property rights are exclusive rights that protect creators and inventors, allowing them to benefit commercially from their work.
Don't Deal with Inside Information
Insider dealing occurs when someone uses non-public, price-sensitive information to gain an unfair advantage in financial markets.
Understanding Inside Information
Inside information is precise, non-public information about a financial instrument or issuer that could significantly impact market prices if disclosed.
Understanding Insider Trading
Inside information can significantly impact financial markets and must be handled with strict confidentiality.
Understanding Market Abuse
Market abuse distorts financial markets and disadvantages investors.
Persons Discharging Managerial Responsibilities
Persons discharging managerial responsibilities are senior individuals in publicly traded organisations who have access to inside information.
Unlawful Disclosure of Inside Information
Inside information is precise, non-public information about a financial instrument or issuer that could impact market prices if disclosed.
The Three Characteristics of Harassment
Harassment in the workplace occurs when unwanted behaviour violates a person's dignity or creates an intimidating or offensive environment.
Minimum Disclosure Rules
The Common Reporting Standard was introduced to prevent offshore tax evasion, but authorities continue to find ways in which it is being circumvented.
Unwanted Behaviour of a Sexual Nature
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that can create an intimidating, degrading or hostile work environment.
The 4D Bystander Intervention Model
Creating a safe and respectful workplace requires everyone to take action when witnessing bullying harassment or inappropriate behaviour.
Understanding Tax Evasion
Tax evasion is the illegal act of dishonestly reducing tax liability, while tax avoidance involves exploiting legal loopholes.
Protecting Intellectual Property Rights
Intellectual property (IP) includes original creations such as artistic works, inventions, trademarks and trade secrets that can be owned, licensed or sold.
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF): Types of Fraud
Understand the various types of fraud that could lead to the Failure to Prevent Fraud offence and how to help prevent them in my role.
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF): Offence
Understand the legal implications of the Failure to Prevent Fraud offence and how to ensure compliance in my role.
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF): Scope
Understand the scope of the Failure to Prevent Fraud offence and its implications for different types of companies.
Failure to Prevent Fraud (FTPF): Prevention
Understand the six principles of fraud prevention to design and support effective anti-fraud controls.
AML and CTF for Charities
Charities can inadvertently become vehicles for money laundering and terrorist financing, threatening their integrity and compliance.
Anti-Bribery for Charities
Bribery in the charity sector can take subtle and complex forms, from cash payments to promises of preferential treatment.
Charity Purposes and Rules
Charities in the UK must operate within their defined purposes as set out in their governing documents, ensuring all activities align with these objectives.
Communicating with the Charity Commission
Effective communication with the Charity Commission is essential for compliance, transparency and maintaining public trust.
Data Protection for Charities
Handling personal data is a critical responsibility for charities, governed by data protection laws and essential for maintaining trust.
Gifts and Hospitality for Charities
Gifts and hospitality can pose a risk of actual or perceived bribery in the charity sector.
Making Decisions at a Charity
Charity decision-making must be guided by principles that ensure actions are within the charity's powers, aligned with its purpose and in its best interests.
Managing Charity Finances
Managing charity finances requires spending responsibly, transparently and strictly for the charity's purpose.
Managing Conflicts of Interest in a Charity
Conflicts of interest, whether actual or perceived, can harm a charity's decision-making and credibility.
Political Activity and Campaigning by Charities
Charities in the UK can engage in political activity to support their purpose, provided it remains secondary to their charitable work and complies with legal and ethical guidelines.
Safeguarding for Charities and Trustees
Safeguarding involves protecting people from harm, abuse and neglect.
Conduct Rule 1: Act with Integrity
Integrity is a fundamental principle in financial services, ensuring ethical conduct and maintaining customer trust.
Conduct Rule 2: Act with due skill, care and diligence
People working in financial services must act with due skill, care and diligence, ensuring their actions do not harm customers or the financial system.
Conduct Rule 3: Be open and cooperative with the FCA, the PRA and other regulators
Financial services firms and employees must be open and cooperative with regulators, including the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
Conduct Rule 4: Pay due regard to the interests of customers and treat them fairly
Financial services professionals must always act in the best interests of customers and ensure they are treated fairly.
Conduct Rule 5: Observe proper standards of market conduct
Financial markets rely on trust, integrity and adherence to established rules and ethical behaviour.
Conduct Rule 6: Act to deliver good outcomes for retail customers
Financial services professionals must act in good faith, prevent foreseeable harm and support customers in achieving their financial objectives.
Third-Party Harassment
Third‑party harassment is unwanted behaviour by someone who is not an employee, such as a customer, supplier, contractor or visitor.
