Which statement best reflects penalties for unauthorized disclosure of a SAR?

Which statement best reflects penalties for unauthorized disclosure of a SAR?

• A. Civil penalties up to $100,000 per violation
• B. Criminal penalties up to $250,000
• C. Prison term up to five years
• D. Unauthorized disclosure carries no penalties

Answer: (A)

Unauthorized disclosure of a SAR is a serious violation that the AML framework treats as a punishable breach of confidentiality. The civil penalties in place are up to $100,000 for each violation, which provides a concrete, per-incident consequence that underscores the seriousness of sharing SAR information outside permitted channels. It’s also important to recognize that criminal penalties can apply as well for willful or knowing disclosures, including fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. The civil-penalty figure is the most direct, consistently cited measure for penalties, which is why it best reflects the typical enforcement shown in training materials. The other options either double-count or omit penalties, or suggest there are none, which isn’t accurate.

Unauthorized disclosure of a SAR is a serious violation that the AML framework treats as a punishable breach of confidentiality. The civil penalties in place are up to $100,000 for each violation, which provides a concrete, per-incident consequence that underscores the seriousness of sharing SAR information outside permitted channels. It’s also important to recognize that criminal penalties can apply as well for willful or knowing disclosures, including fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. The civil-penalty figure is the most direct, consistently cited measure for penalties, which is why it best reflects the typical enforcement shown in training materials. The other options either double-count or omit penalties, or suggest there are none, which isn’t accurate.