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Custom Lists

Create custom watchlists for AML screening in KYC and KYB using internal sanctions, PEP, adverse media, and other risk lists.

Custom Lists Overview

Custom Lists let you create custom screening lists in ComplyCube. Use them to extend ComplyCube’s AML Screening Checks with your own internal or proprietary data.

Screen both individuals and businesses during KYC and KYB.

Typical lists include blocked customers, internal fraud lists, high-risk counterparties, and jurisdiction-specific risk lists.

This service is only available through our Enterprise Plan. Get in touch with your Account Manager to enable it.

Common use cases

Use Custom Lists to improve screening coverage in cases like:

  • Internal watchlists: Screen against your blocked customers and internal fraud lists.

  • Regulatory and enforcement lists: Screen against industry-specific regulatory actions, enforcement notices, or prohibited entities relevant to your sector.

  • Shared fraud databases: Screen against consortium or third-party fraud lists to identify known bad actors before approval.

  • Higher-risk portfolios: Add bespoke risk lists for specific products or jurisdictions.

How custom lists works

Once a Custom List is created, you can upload entities using CSV files, API requests, or an SFTP integration.

These lists are then included in AML screening checks alongside ComplyCube’s global datasets.

ComplyCube Custom Lists view for custom watchlists and AML screening
Custom Lists view in the ComplyCube Portal

Upload options

You can upload and manage Custom List entities using the following methods:

Method
Description

Web Portal

Create and manage lists, then upload entity data via CSV through the Custom Screening Lists page. See the CSV template.

API

Add and update entities programmatically in real time using the Custom Lists API.

SFTP

Schedule secure CSV or JSON uploads via SFTP for automated list refreshes. Contact your Account Manager for setup details.

CSV template

To use our CSV template:

  1. Download the sample template below.

  2. Open it in Excel, Numbers, or any compatible spreadsheet editor.

  3. Keep the first row unchanged, it contains the required column headers needed for correct parsing.

  4. Enter your data into the relevant columns.

  5. Save the file once complete.

  6. Upload it through the Portal.

Sample Template

Frequently asked questions

What are Custom Lists used for?

AML custom watchlists help you screen against internal or proprietary risk data during KYC and KYB.

Use them for blocked customers, internal fraud records, high-risk counterparties, and sector-specific or jurisdiction-specific screening lists.

What can I add to a Custom List?

You can add both individuals and businesses.

Typical entries include blocked customers, internal fraud cases, high-risk counterparties, and sector-specific or jurisdiction-specific watchlists.

How do I upload or update Custom List data?

You can manage data through the Portal, the Custom Lists API, or SFTP.

Use the Portal for manual CSV uploads. Use the API or SFTP for automated or recurring updates.

Will Custom Lists be screened alongside ComplyCube datasets?

Yes.

Once configured, Custom Lists are included in AML screening checks alongside ComplyCube’s global screening data.

Can I use Custom Lists for both KYC and KYB screening?

Yes.

Custom Lists support screening for both individuals and businesses, so they fit both KYC and KYB use cases.

Combine Custom Lists-enabled screening with other KYC and fraud checks, such as:

Use these to configure screening coverage, run it at scale, and manage outcomes:

  • Workflows to orchestrate screening inside onboarding journeys.

  • Bulk Processing to run screening checks at scale using CSV uploads.

  • Policies to apply consistent decision rules across workflow sessions.

  • Automation to tune screening thresholds (standalone checks only).

  • AML Risk Scoring to add risk indicators and support CDD/EDD decisions.