The UK's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is encouraging businesses to come forward and report any suspected wrongdoing, offering a potential path to avoid prosecution if they fully cooperate with

investigators.

In new guidance released on Thursday, the SFO—responsible for tackling serious financial crimes, including fraud and corruption—outlined that companies which voluntarily disclose possible violations could be considered for a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA), unless there are exceptional circumstances.

DPAs typically allow companies to avoid criminal prosecution if they meet certain conditions, such as paying fines, providing compensation, and implementing compliance reforms. Legal proceedings are suspended, and if the terms are met and no further offenses occur, prosecution can ultimately be avoided.

SFO Director Nick Ephgrave warned against concealment, stating, "If you have knowledge of wrongdoing, the gamble of keeping this to yourself has never been riskier."

The guidance also clarifies what constitutes meaningful cooperation, emphasizing the importance of preserving both digital and physical records and engaging with authorities at an early stage. Photo by Airdrake, Wikimedia commons.