Complete the input form

1. Enter a search reference

This is an optional field and for internal reference only.

2. Set your risk level

3. Enter the search subject's details

The minimum input fields are

   - Title

   - First name

   - Last name

   - Current address

4. Add additional information

Although not mandatory passports, driving licences and National Insurance numbers can be verified as true and genuine by inputting details in this section.

SmartSearch will conduct an algorithmic check on document numbers, checking the information against the standard algorithm for that document type to ensure they are valid

A further available service is Bank Wizard Absolute. This service checks that the Sort Code and Account Number entered match one another, whilst also checking that the individual's name, address and DOB also match these details. Please get in touch with your Customer Success Manager for further details and pricing.

5. Click Results

Click results to receive an instant PASS or REFER results.

Interpreting the results

PASS or REFER results

The PASS/REFER results are determined by the number of Primary Checks made and the particular level of risk associated with the search subject.

In line with the regulatory guidance for Electronic Verification, a normal risk client would need one match on an individual's full name and current addresses, and a second match on an individual's full name and EITHER the individual's current address or date of birth. Three matches are required for a high risk client.

Any refer results are automatically processed via a second credit reference agency (CRA)(unless otherwise agreed), providing the highest match pass rate in the industry. This will be charged as an additional UK individual search at the rate detailed in your contract.

Data breakdown

A breakdown of the data returned is detailed under different heading on the SmartSearch results page allowing you to see exactly where the primary checks come from and when they are dated.

   - Primary and Collaborative

   - Match Status

   - Additional Checks

   - Warnings

Due diligence

Watchlist screening is automatically included in every search. We will also monitor all the searches put through the SmartSearch platform in line with your account (daily, weekly, monthly) for new entrants onto sanctions and POP lists.

If an individual with the same name as the search subject has been found on a watchlist, an alert is displayed at the top of the results.

You can download the full report in PDF form using the 'Download Full Report' button.

Ensure that it is this button that you select rather than selecting 'Downloading this report' within UK Individual.

For further information on how to conduct your due diligence, please refer to the How to Conduct your Due Diligence guide.

Further Support

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to conduct your dedicated Customers Success Manager or another member of our Customer Success Team.

Common Questions

Does the search leave a footprint on the individual's Credit File?

The check does leave a footprint on the individuals' credit file. This is because for audit purposes CRAs are required to record that the search has taken place.

However, this footprint is not the same as credit check footprint and has no negative impact on their file. It is shown as an 'identity search' which is a light footprint, simply showing an AML search has taken place. An individual can have many identity footprints and it will still not affect their credit file. Because of this you do not need the permission of the search subject, you just need to inform them that the check will take place.

Why am I getting an 'Address not found' message?

The Postcode Look Up system is driven by the Post Office Address File (PAF). This is approximately 97% accurate and occasionally returns an address which is not complete. For example, if a house has been converted into flats, then the flats may not be listed. Also, addresses of remote properties may be formatted in a slightly different way: for this reason, we allow you to alter the address manually. In order to return data from CRAs, the address format must match the way it was entered onto any credit agreements etc and subsequently recorded by CRAs.

As the two checks are independent it is possible to PASS the client for AML purposes and still receive an alert, meaning you need to conduct Enhanced Due Diligence to ascertain if it is your client on the watchlist.

Understanding the PASS/REFER results

Normal Risk Client - PASS

This indicates that two or more of the primary checks have been made on the individual at that address and the client has therefore met the regulatory guidance of Electronic Verification.

Normal Risk Client - REFER

This indicates that fewer than two Primary Checks have been made on that individual at that address and further proof of identity should be sought.

High Risk Client - PASS

This indicates that three or more of the Primary Checks have been made on the individual at that address, and the client has therefore met the regulatory guidance for Electronic Verification.

High Risk Client - REFER

This indicates that less than three Primary Checks have been made on the individual at that address and further proof of identity should be sought.

How can I get a PASS result but still get a Sanctions or PEP alert?

The AML check and the watchlist check are independent of each other. The AML check confirms the identity of the person at the address supplied. The watchlist check is a 'name only' check and is checking global watchlists. As this is a name only check the majority of results are 'false positives' i.e. not the person you are dealing with.