What is the SDN list?

The Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) is OFAC's primary sanctions list. It contains the names of individuals, groups, and entities designated under various US sanctions programmes. US persons are generally prohibited from dealing with SDN-listed parties, and their assets within US jurisdiction must be blocked.

What the SDN list contains

Each entry typically includes:

  • Full name and aliases ("also known as" entries)
  • Date of birth, nationality, and passport numbers where known
  • The sanctions programme under which the designation was made
  • Identifying details such as addresses and vessel information

The list is searchable via OFAC's online search tool, though manual searching is neither efficient nor auditable for compliance purposes.

Screening against the SDN list

Automated screening using fuzzy matching algorithms is essential for effective SDN List compliance. Name variants, transliterations, and aliases mean that exact-match approaches miss a significant proportion of genuine matches. FirmScreen incorporates the SDN List alongside other major sanctions lists in every screening operation.

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