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Central Bank of Cyprus Imposes Significant €350,000 Fine on Payabl. Cy Ltd

Central Bank Enforces AML Compliance

The Central Bank of Cyprus has sanctioned Payabl. Cy Ltd, formerly known as Powercash21 Ltd, with a fine totaling €350,000. This penalty comes as a direct consequence of the company’s failure to comply with specific provisions of the 2007 legislation governing the Prevention and Suppression of Money Laundering from Illegal Activities.

The Basis for the Decision

Grounded in Article 59 of the relevant law, the decision was finalized on September 30, 2025, following a 2020 audit. The regulatory process was conducted in strict accordance with administrative law procedures, ensuring that Payabl. Cy Ltd was afforded the opportunity to submit a defense prior to the final ruling.

Regulatory Oversight and Strategic Enforcement

In exercising its supervisory mandate, the Central Bank of Cyprus is empowered to implement administrative measures and impose penalties for lapses in compliance with applicable laws and directives. This enforcement action reinforces the bank’s strategy to promote transparency and combat money laundering within the financial sector.

Corporate Response and Future Steps

A representative of Payabl. Cy Ltd remarked that the fine pertains to an investigation conducted in 2020, linked to customer relationships from the period 2014–2018—a period during which the company had already ceased relations with those clients. The spokesperson emphasized that the current operations, leadership, and client base remain unaffected by these historical findings. Additionally, the company has significantly bolstered its AML compliance framework since then. Payabl. Cy Ltd has indicated its intention to appeal the decision before the Administrative Court, contesting the ruling as disproportionate given the historical nature of the case.

Bank Of Cyprus Launches Cybersecurity Programme For Students In Limassol

Bank of Cyprus launched a cybersecurity initiative in Limassol as part of its “The Young Ask and Provide Solutions” programme, involving students in simulated cyberattack scenarios. The programme focuses on practical training in cyber defense and awareness of risks linked to digital infrastructure.

Innovative Collaboration And Real-World Challenges

In partnership with the Education Ministry and non-profit organization TechIsland, the programme provided a robust platform for young minds to confront realistic cyberattack simulations. Held at the modern Limassol regional offices of the Bank of Cyprus, the interactive space enabled 60 secondary school students from across the region to collaboratively tackle the complex threats facing national digital infrastructure.

Practical Exercises And Strategic Insights

Participants took part in workshops built around cyberattack scenarios. Tasks included identifying prevention strategies, planning response measures, and proposing public awareness approaches. The exercises focused on coordination and decision-making during cyber incidents.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

According to Elli Ioannidou, the programme is designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. She said the initiative aims to help students understand real-world challenges and develop problem-solving skills. Additional input was provided by Marios Stavrou, who noted that managing cyber incidents requires coordination across multiple teams and functions.

Building A Resilient Cyber Ecosystem

Experts, including Mathaios Panteli and Tanya Romanyukha highlighted the importance of early digital skills and cybersecurity awareness. Their comments focused on preparing the future workforce skills needed for managing digital risks. The programme forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and education in Cyprus.

The Bank of Cyprus remains committed to investing in forward-thinking initiatives that inspire youth and enhance community awareness. Through these targeted efforts, the bank is not only addressing immediate security challenges but also contributing to a future where advanced technology and robust cyber defense mechanisms coexist seamlessly.

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