Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS)

CAMS certifies that a professional has the knowledge and skills to:

• Detect and prevent money laundering and terrorist financing
• Understand global AML laws and best practices
• Design and manage AML compliance programs
• Conduct risk assessments and suspicious activity reporting (SAR)

Before diving into learning Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), it's helpful to have some foundational skills and knowledge that will make the learning process smoother and more effective. :

• Understand Why: Know your reason for pursuing CAMS—career growth, role requirement, or expanding your compliance expertise.
• Evaluate Eligibility: Ensure you meet ACAMS' criteria in terms of education, experience, and training credits.
• Familiarize with AML Basics: Review core concepts such as money laundering stages, KYC, CDD, and regulatory frameworks.
• Commit Time: Allocate consistent study hours—typically 2–3 months of focused prep is needed for most candidates.
• Gather Materials: Use the CAMS Study Guide, online s, and practice exams provided by ACAMS.
• Join Communities: Engage with CAMS forums or LinkedIn groups to share knowledge, ask questions, and stay motivated.

1: Money Laundering

• Definition and stages of money laundering
• Real-world laundering methods
• Consequences of financial crime

2: International AML Standards

• FATF Recommendations
• Basel Committee principles
• Key global AML regulations

3: AML Compliance Programs

• Components of an effective program
• Policies, procedures, and controls
• Training and independent audits

4: Customer Due Diligence (CDD)

• Know Your Customer (KYC)
• Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD)
• Risk-based approach

5: Suspicious Activity Reporting

• Identifying red flags
• Filing SARs/STRs
• Case studies and sample reports

6: AML Investigations & Enforcement

• Internal investigations
• Law enforcement collaboration
• Global case examples