SmartSearch tech boss Fraser Mitchell says three quarters of firms have yet to start verifying the sources of their clients’ funds using open banking.

SmartSearch Chief Guy Harrison says money mule recruiters may try to befriend students, who often think they’re doing a favour for a friend.

Martin Cheek says protecting transactions from criminal gangs, who are highly skilled at hiding their dirty money, is vital for estate agents.

Just a tiny fraction of agents are submitting SARs despite HM Treasury and the Home Office saying the sector is at ‘medium’ risk for money laundering.

Anti-money laundering expert Simon Luke says press coverage of the Tory donor serves as a stark reminder to dissuade others from similar activities.

Agents can expect greater scrutiny of their AML compliance after Johnson promised new cash for the National Crime Agency.

Money laundering using property transactions may be an age-old problem, but 2021 will present new threats and changes for agents on the frontline, says Lisa Isaacs.

NCA says Zamira Hajiyev must now explain where her wealth comes from or have properties worth £22m confiscated under AML rules.