As trusted professionals involved in legal real estate transactions and property transfers, notaries public have a responsibility that extends beyond paperwork. The fight against money laundering, sanctions evasion, and illegal fentanyl financing is increasingly relying on professionals like us to stay informed and report suspicious activity. In March 2025, the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) hosted a critical webinar titled “Following the Money: Sanctions Evasion, Property Reporting and the Fight Against Illegal Fentanyl Financing.” It highlighted growing concerns about how sanctioned individuals and criminal networks may attempt to hide or move money through property transactions.
