Identity verification solutions provider, Credas Technologies, has been acquired by SmartSearch.

Subject to regulatory approval, the strategic acquisition will enhance SmartSearch’s position as one of the UK’s foremost digital Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance platforms.

By integrating Credas’ brand and technology, SmartSearch will expands its product offering and market reach, delivering even greater flexibility and value to its 7,500 clients across regulated industries.

The combined expertise will drive innovation, enhance customer experience, and support continued growth in a market facing increasing regulatory scrutiny.

Immediate benefits

Phil Cotter, CEO, SmartSearch, commented: “Regulated firms are under pressure to meet rising KYC and AML demands while delivering seamless onboarding. By joining forces with Credas, we combine our strengths to deliver unmatched innovation and service. Our clients will see immediate benefits as we continue to set the standard for digital compliance.”

Tim Barnett, CEO, Credas (main image) added: “With financial crime on the rise and fraud tactics evolving, digital identity verification is more critical than ever. Partnering with SmartSearch empowers us to help even more businesses protect themselves and focus on delivering quality service.”

Since 2013, SmartSearch has achieved a 31% year-on-year growth and received significant investment from Triple Private Equity in 2024.

Ben Shepherd, Head of Value Creation & Founding Partner of Triple Private Equity and Chairman of SmartSearch, said: “In 2024, Triple was impressed by the organisation’s consistent growth and customer-centric approach, together with its high-quality technology platform. Today’s news confirms that our confidence was well founded; we have no doubt that SmartSearch, with the addition of Credas will continue to trailblaze in this fast-moving market.”