Joint alert against illegal employment
The United States government, through the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), issued an alert aimed at financial institutions. The objective: identify and report schemes related to the hiring of immigrants without work authorization.
The notice includes 18 warning indicators for banks and entities to detect suspicious activities. FinCEN asks to use the code “FINANCIALINTEGRITY-2026-A002” when filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SAR).
Additionally, employers who hire or exploit unauthorized workers are encouraged to report using the Immigration and Customs Enforcement form or by calling (866) 347-2423.
The role of the ITIN and financial risks
The alert recommends banks consider the use of the Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) as a possible risk factor. When a customer submits an ITIN in lieu of Social Security or a work permit, entities must evaluate the full context.
According to FinCEN, undocumented immigrants can illegally obtain Social Security numbers from U.S. citizens to access employment, wages, health benefits, and financial services. Complicit employers often use payroll tax fraud to hide low wages and evade taxes.
In 2025, financial institutions reported more than $2.5 billion in suspicious activity linked to these schemes. The alert seeks to protect the integrity of the financial system against these practices.




