Ms. Amir, a mortgage agent, is gathering documents for a mortgage application. Her client provides identification documents that appear authentic, but the client's demeanor is extremely nervous, and they provide inconsistent answers regarding their employment history and the source of their down payment. The down payment is entirely from a recent large cash deposit into their bank account. What is Ms. Amir's immediate and required action?

Question: Ms. Amir, a mortgage agent, is gathering documents for a mortgage application. Her client provides identification documents that appear authentic, but the client's demeanor is extremely nervous, and they provide inconsistent answers regarding their employment history and the source of their down payment. The down payment is entirely from a recent large cash deposit into their bank account. What is Ms. Amir's immediate and required action?

Answer options: ✅ File a Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) with FINTRAC immediately.

• Request additional documentation to resolve the inconsistencies.
• Advise the client to reconsider their application given the discrepancies.
• Complete the mortgage application as normal, assuming the documents are valid.

Correct answer: File a Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) with FINTRAC immediately.

Explanation: The inconsistent information, nervous demeanor, and large, unexplained cash down payment are red flags indicating potential money laundering. Under the PCMLTFA, Ms. Amir has a legal obligation to form a reasonable suspicion and file a Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) with FINTRAC without delay, rather than attempting to resolve the inconsistencies herself or 'tip off' the client.