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Investigations and intelligence updates

Issue 11: June 2025

Investigations and intelligence updates

Editor's note

Emeric Bernard-Jones

Welcome to our 11th edition of Investigations and intelligence updates, our monthly publication. 

This month, we spotlight two stories that highlight a common vulnerability: internal failure.

A former GCHQ intern was jailed for stealing top-secret files—not for ideology or profit, but out of “curiosity.” In a year marked by leaks from the CIA to SignalGate, this case underscores how even low-level insiders can compromise national security when oversight breaks down.

Meanwhile, the FATF’s updated grey list added Bolivia and the British Virgin Islands, reflecting global concern over weak anti-money laundering controls. These changes bring real consequences—raising compliance burdens and financial risk for institutions working across borders.

Both stories remind us that strong systems aren’t just built on technology or policy—but on people, vigilance, and accountability at every level.

News
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GCHQ ex‑intern jailed for data theft

On 13 June 2025, the UK Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced that a former Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) intern was jailed for copying top-secret files onto his personal mobile phone and taking them home.

News
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FATF's June 2025 "Grey List" update

In mid-June 2025, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issued an update to their list of 'Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring', commonly referred to as the 'grey list'.

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