At NEACH Payments Group’s second quarter Client Town Hall, compliance professionals, advisors, and financial leaders gathered with a shared purpose: to strengthen their programs, exchange insights, and tackle the ever-evolving challenges of payments, fraud, and AML. What unfolded was a dynamic conversation that blended practical guidance with strategic foresight—and a clear reminder that collaboration is key in today’s complex financial landscape.
Caitlyn Mullins-Smith, Vice President and Director of NEACH Payments Group, opened the session by emphasizing the power of teamwork and welcoming new advisor Heather Williams. With two decades of experience in banking and compliance, Heather brought a perspective shaped by years of conducting BSA audits, developing risk assessments, and leading training initiatives. Her message was clear: compliance isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about building resilient systems and empowering teams.
One of the most resonant themes of the Town Hall was the idea that audit reports should be viewed not as punitive documents, but as roadmaps for improvement. Heather encouraged attendees to engage auditors as partners, not examiners, and to use findings—whether minor or material—as catalysts for action. From triaging issues and delegating tasks to keeping leadership informed, the conversation centered on transforming feedback into forward momentum.
Heather also walked through common audit pitfalls, including weak internal controls, repeated non-compliance, and overlooked regulatory obligations. Her advice was practical and direct: document everything, communicate openly, and never underestimate the importance of leadership buy-in. Negligent behavior and willful disregard for policies, she warned, can carry serious consequences—not just regulatory, but reputational.
As the discussion turned to risk assessments, the need for adaptability became clear. Attendees shared concerns about staffing shortages and the pressure to do more with less. Many felt understaffed, and the rise of AI and automation sparked conversations about shifting roles and leveraging technology to streamline operations. The takeaway? Strategic hiring and internal mobility are more important than ever.
Fraud trends also took center stage, with alarming data from the FTC and FinCEN pointing to a 400% surge in check fraud between 2023 and 2024. Heather shared real-world stories—from Ponzi schemes to check washing—that underscored the urgency of staff training, especially for those unfamiliar with traditional payment methods. Investment scams, imposter fraud, and social media schemes are evolving fast, and institutions must stay vigilant.
Perhaps one of the most forward-looking discussions was around the integration of fraud and AML—what some are calling “FRAML.” Heather and others advocated for breaking down silos and building cross-functional teams that can spot shared red flags, such as synthetic identities and rapid fund movements. Unified monitoring tools, coordinated case management, and ongoing education were all highlighted as essential components of a modern financial crime strategy.
As the Town Hall wrapped up, NEACH Payments Group unveiled new BSA/AML services, including independent testing, risk assessment development, and tailored training for both financial institutions and commercial clients. With new ACH rules on the horizon, the timing couldn’t be better for organizations to reassess their compliance posture and prepare for what’s next.
The second quarter Client Town Hall was more than just a meeting—it was a reminder of the power of shared knowledge, thoughtful strategy, and community. NEACH Payments Group remains committed to supporting its members through education, collaboration, and hands-on guidance. Our next Client Town Hall, Bridging the Gap: IT Risk Assessments, Audits, and ACH Security, took place on September 16 and is available for download.
If you’re interested in learning more about NEACH Payments Group’s services or want to connect with our advisors, visit our website and set up a meeting. We look forward to partnering with you on your compliance journey.
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