Do you have to be a US Resident to be an SEC Whistleblower?
If you are not a current U.S. resident, but you have information regarding violations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), then you might be wondering whether you can blow the whistle on securities fraud. Fortunately, you do not need to reside in the U.S. to become an SEC whistleblower.
Whistleblowing is critical to the success of the country’s economy and financial markets, and without whistleblowers, these markets would run amok with investment schemes and other securities violations. For this reason, it doesn’t matter where you live in the world; if you become aware of possible violations, you have the right to come forward and have your tip heard by the SEC.
Doing so can result in significant whistleblower awards if specific criteria are met, and having an experienced SEC whistleblower attorney by your side can increase your chances of coming away with the reward you deserve.
Continue reading to learn more about why those who live outside of the U.S. can still secure whistleblower awards, and the requirements your tip will need to meet in order to be eligible for such a reward.
Why International Whistleblowers Can Win Awards
U.S.-based companies often conduct business outside of the country, and have locations across the globe. Because these corporations are U.S.-based, they must adhere to U.S. rules and regulations regarding financial markets, trading and investing, no matter where their subsequent offices are located.
For example, if a U.S.-based corporation also has offices in Hong Kong or Paris, any employee in those locations can report tips to the SEC and potentially win an award for the risk they took in coming forward.
Employees who are concerned about being retaliated against by their employer for whistleblowing can remain anonymous when reporting to the SEC if they work with a qualified SEC whistleblower attorney. Your identity will only need to become known by the SEC in the event that you qualify for a whistleblower award.
Requirements for Obtaining a Whistleblower Reward
Before you blow the whistle, you likely want to determine whether you’ll qualify for such a reward. For you to be eligible for a whistleblower award, you’ll need to meet stringent requirements, including the following:
- Your tip must be submitted voluntarily.
- Your tip must be considered “original.”
- The SEC must be able to take enforceable action.
- The SEC must be able to recover sanctions exceeding $1 million.
Your lawyer can answer any concerns you might have about your eligibility after reviewing the circumstances of the scheme in question and the validity of your information.
Consult an Experienced SEC Whistleblower Lawyer
If you are an international whistleblower who is interested in tipping off the SEC, you can retain the legal representation you need when you reach out to a qualified SEC whistleblower lawyer at Meissner Associates. Simply complete the secured contact form provided below or call our firm directly at 1-866-764-3100 to schedule your confidential tip assessment today.
