Publication
Due Diligence Methodology Overview
- Reference
- 1C-PUB-2025-04
- Status
- Issued
- 8 September 2025
Sets out the sources and methods used in due diligence engagements, and the distinction between corroborated findings and reported allegations.
Purpose
This overview describes the sources and methods applied across due diligence engagements, and how findings are distinguished from allegations in the deliverables 1Cert.org produces.
Sources and Methods
Engagements draw on open-source intelligence, public records and filings, licensed data sources, and, where the scope of an engagement requires it, direct enquiry with named sources. Entity-resolution and relationship-analysis techniques are used to establish ownership and control structures.
Evidentiary Standard
A finding is reported as corroborated where it is supported by at least two independent sources or one primary-document source. Uncorroborated material, including single-source adverse media, is reported as an allegation and clearly marked as such — it is not presented as an established fact.
Confidentiality
Due diligence reports are prepared for the commissioning party and are not published in the registry. Findings are not disclosed to the subject of an assessment except through the review and correction process.