PRMIA Exam 8020 Topic 5 Question 6 Discussion

Step 1: Understanding OFAC

OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) is a U.S. Treasury Department agency responsible for enforcing economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals.

It prevents financial crime by restricting transactions with sanctioned individuals, entities, and countries.

Step 2: Role of OFAC in Financial Crime Prevention

OFAC administers sanctions to prevent money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit activities.

Financial institutions must comply with OFAC regulations to avoid heavy fines and reputational damage.

PRMIA's Financial Crime Risk Guidelines emphasize the importance of OFAC compliance in risk management.

Step 3: Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

Option A ('Office of Financial Asset Control') -- Incorrect wording; OFAC deals with foreign assets, not just financial assets.

Option B ('Office of Foreigner and Other Control') -- OFAC does not regulate foreigners broadly; it targets specific foreign assets and transactions.

Option C ('Office for Asset Control') -- Missing 'Foreign', which is critical to OFAC's function.

PRMIA Risk Reference Used:

PRMIA Financial Crime Risk Management Guidelines -- Emphasizes regulatory compliance with OFAC.

PRMIA Compliance and Sanctions Risk Standards -- Stresses the role of OFAC in preventing illicit financial activities.

Final Conclusion:

OFAC stands for the Office of Foreign Assets Control, making Option D the correct answer.