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Free CGSS practice questions 2026
5 real-format CGSS questions from our bank of 54, each with the correct answer, an explanation and a source. Certified Global Sanctions Specialist, issued by ACAMS.
What should sanctions training for front-office staff focus on MOST?
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Correct answer: A. Recognising red flags relevant to their role and knowing how to escalate them
Role-based training should help staff spot red flags (unusual routing, vague end users, requests to remove references) and escalate. Memorising lists is impossible and unnecessary; bypassing controls is a violation.
Source: OFAC Framework for Compliance Commitments: training
Which TWO actions are expected of a US bank that receives a wire transfer in which an SDN has an interest?
Select 2 answers.
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Correct answer: B. Report the blocked property to OFAC within 10 business days, C. Block the funds and place them in an interest-bearing blocked account
Property in which an SDN has an interest must be blocked (frozen) in a blocked account and reported to OFAC within 10 business days. Returning or releasing it would be a violation unless licensed.
Source: 31 CFR Part 501 (Reporting, Procedures and Penalties Regulations)
Which TWO practices are common in maritime sanctions evasion?
Select 2 answers.
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Correct answer: C. Falsifying vessel or cargo documents, including the flag or registry, D. Ship-to-ship transfers at sea to disguise the origin or destination of cargo
Advisories from the US and UK describe ship-to-ship transfers, AIS manipulation, document falsification, flag hopping and complex ownership as typical deceptive shipping practices.
Source: US Maritime Advisory (2020); OFSI and OTSI maritime guidance
Which statement about UN Security Council sanctions lists is correct?
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Correct answer: B. They are adopted by Security Council resolutions and member states must implement them in national law
UN sanctions (e.g. ISIL/Al-Qaida, DPRK) are binding on member states under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, but each state gives them effect through national or regional law (e.g. EU regulations). They cover various threats, not only terrorism.
Source: UN Charter Chapter VII; UN Security Council sanctions committees
Which UK body is responsible for implementing and enforcing UK financial sanctions?
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Correct answer: C. The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), part of HM Treasury
OFSI, within HM Treasury, implements and enforces UK financial sanctions, issues licences and can impose civil monetary penalties. Trade sanctions involve other bodies, and serious breaches can be prosecuted criminally.
Source: Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018; Policing and Crime Act 2017
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These questions are written independently from public standards and are not recalled exam questions. Facts are checked against ACAMS; how we check facts. Also read the CGSS certification guide.