OFAC Advisory

An OFAC advisory is a published guidance document that alerts the public to emerging sanctions risks and compliance expectations. Unlike regulations or enforcement actions, advisories are non-binding — but they signal OFAC's enforcement priorities and the direction of future rulemaking.

Notable advisories

• 2020 Ransomware Advisory: Warned that paying ransomware to sanctioned entities is prohibited and that facilitators (insurers, negotiators, forensic firms) may be liable.
• 2022 Virtual Currency Advisory: Reminded the crypto industry of sanctions compliance obligations, specifically calling out the risk of automated transactions.