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Apr. 8, 2026

Introduction to money laundering: What it is, how to spot it

Money laundering turns illegal proceeds into seemingly legitimate funds through financial sleight of hand.

William Tolin Gay

Of Counsel
Wilson Elser

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Introduction to money laundering: What it is, how to spot it
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Money laundering is the process of making illegally gained proceeds (i.e., "dirty money") appear legal (i.e., "clean"). It enables criminals to conceal the proceeds of their illegal activities and make the illicit funds appear as though they were obtained through legitimate means. By doing so, money launderers can avoid detection and confiscation of their assets and can use the funds for further criminal activities.

The money laundered through cr...

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