Following the Money is a Q&A series that spotlights how Chainalysis customers use our products in the real world — from compliance teams and investigators to pioneers driving crypto adoption.
Clément Santerre is the Chief Compliance Officer at Meria.
1. How has your work changed the way you think about money or trust?
Through my professional experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of the intricate roles that money and trust play in both personal and professional contexts. My work has emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in fostering trust, as well as the strategic management of financial resources to ensure sustainability and growth. This perspective has reshaped my approach, emphasizing ethical practices and mutual respect as key drivers for success.
I am confident that blockchain will play a central role in the years to come, as it encompasses all the characteristics needed for currency to serve as a guarantee of trust for everyone.
2. How do you tackle cross-border risk profiles and local requirements and procedures?
Addressing cross-border risk profiles and local requirements fundamentally revolves around a risk-based approach. It is essential to consider all potential risks, including regulatory, operational, and cultural factors. Understanding the doctrines and expectations of local regulators is paramount, as they shape the compliance landscape and operational viability. By integrating comprehensive risk assessments and aligning strategies with local regulatory frameworks, I ensure effective and adaptive management of processes across borders.
3. What’s one thing you learned the hard way in this field?
One valuable lesson I learned in this field is the importance of making decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of the subject, requiring a 360-degree view that accounts for every detail. Additionally, analyzing transactions on the blockchain demands significant expertise, as it requires curiosity and adaptability to keep up with the continuously evolving mechanisms and innovations in this domain.
4. What’s a pattern you’ve trained yourself to spot instinctively?
Through my experience, I have developed an instinctive ability to identify scams, which pose a significant risk to our clients. Recognizing the subtle signs and patterns of fraudulent activities allows me to proactively mitigate potential threats and safeguard their interests effectively.
5. What’s one on-chain red flag you never ignore?
I never overlook any exposure to CSAM-related transactions, as even minimal amounts can be directly linked to this illicit activity. Additionally, I maintain heightened vigilance regarding the use of instant exchanges or mixers, as these tools often serve to obscure transactional origins and may indicate attempts to circumvent compliance measures.
6. How has Chainalysis data on TON improved your compliance processes?
The integration of Chainalysis data regarding TON has significantly enhanced our operations. This advancement has enabled us to expand our business offerings by incorporating TON into our portfolio of assets. Furthermore, it has facilitated the development of a comprehensive transaction traceability system tailored specifically for this blockchain, ensuring robust compliance and operational efficiency.
7. What’s the fastest you’ve ever traced something with Chainalysis?
Using Chainalysis data, I managed to prevent a transaction before it was completed. By analyzing the destination address prior to initiating the transaction, I identified potential exposure to scams. This proactive approach enabled us to safeguard significant funds that could have been lost to fraudulent activities.
8. Which Chainalysis offering do you wish more people knew about?
One key offering I believe deserves more recognition is Chainalysis Reactor. It offers unparalleled capabilities for tracing and investigating blockchain transactions. I highly recommend obtaining Chainalysis certifications and fully utilizing your Reactor license to maximize its potential in ensuring compliance and enhancing investigative processes.
9. How do you unplug — if you ever do?
To disconnect, I start by turning off my phone, enjoying a good meal, watching a movie, reading a book, or following a Manchester United match, even though watching them play isn’t always the most relaxing experience.
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