Account Freezing Orders (AFOs)

Agencies such as the Police, HMRC, the NCA, Trading Standards or the Home Office may apply for an AFO if they suspect funds in the account may be related to unlawful conduct such as fraud, money laundering, tax offences, or other unlawful activity.

1. A Notification from the Bank – Informing you that the account has been frozen.
2. A copy of the Account Freezing Order – Setting out the terms, duration and rights.
3. Notice of an Application – Sometimes issued if law enforcement applies with notice.
4. Requests for Information – Including bank statements, transaction explanations, business records or tax documents.
5. Hearing Notices – If you or the enforcement agency makes an application to vary or discharge the order.

• Confiscation of funds if authorities believe they are linked to unlawful activity.
• Negative impact on credit ratings.
• Being placed on internal bank fraud monitoring systems.
• Potential reporting to external fraud databases.
• Business disruption due to lack of access to funds.
• Difficulty opening new bank accounts.

Law enforcement may request documents to understand the source of funds. If they are satisfied that the money is lawful, the AFO may be lifted. If concerns persist, the agency may apply for an Account Forfeiture Order.

It is important to note that there is no requirement for a criminal conviction to have been obtained against any party (or even a criminal investigation to have been opened) for the courts to make AFOs or Account Forfeiture Orders.