1. Purpose

This Whistleblower Notice outlines the procedures and protections for individuals who wish to report any suspected illegal, unethical, or improper activities within the organization, including but not limited to fraud, corruption, violations of laws and regulations, financial misconduct, and other forms of wrongdoing. The organization is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all its operations.

2. Who Can Report?

Any individual, including employees, contractors, partners, and third parties, who becomes aware of or suspects any illegal, unethical, or improper conduct within the organization is encouraged to report such activities. Whistleblowers may report anonymously if they prefer.

3. Types of Reportable Conduct

The following are examples of activities that may be reported under this notice, although this list is not exhaustive:

• Fraud, embezzlement, or theft
• Bribery or corruption
• Violations of laws or regulations
• Financial misconduct or misrepresentation
• Health and safety violations
• Environmental hazards
• Discrimination, harassment, or abuse
• Breaches of company policies or ethical standards

4. Reporting Channels

You can report any suspected misconduct through the following confidential channels:

• Email: report@GekoCrypto

All reports will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality and reviewed promptly.

5. Protection of Whistleblowers

The organization is committed to ensuring that whistleblowers are protected from any form of retaliation, including but not limited to:

• Termination or demotion
• Suspension or withholding of benefits
• Harassment or intimidation
• Discrimination in any form

Whistleblowers who report suspected misconduct in good faith will not face any adverse consequences as a result of their report, even if the investigation does not result in a finding of misconduct.

6. Confidentiality

Every effort will be made to protect the identity of the whistleblower. Reports will be treated as confidential to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct a thorough investigation and comply with legal requirements.

If the identity of the whistleblower is required to be disclosed in order to investigate or take corrective action, the whistleblower will be informed before their identity is revealed.

7. Investigation Process

Upon receiving a report, the organization will:

1. Acknowledge receipt of the report (if not anonymous).
2. Conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations.
3. Take appropriate action to resolve the issue, which may include corrective measures or legal action.
4. Provide feedback to the whistleblower, where appropriate and applicable.

Investigations will be conducted promptly, and every effort will be made to resolve issues effectively and fairly.

8. Good Faith Reporting

Whistleblowers must report in good faith, meaning the whistleblower genuinely believes the information provided is true and accurate. Reports made with malicious intent, false allegations, or with the aim of causing harm may result in disciplinary action against the whistleblower.

9. Non-Retaliation Policy

Retaliation against whistleblowers for making a report in good faith is strictly prohibited. If a whistleblower believes they are experiencing retaliation as a result of their report, they are encouraged to report this to [Insert Compliance Officer/HR/Legal Team Contact] immediately. Any retaliation will be addressed swiftly and may result in disciplinary action, including termination, against those responsible for the retaliatory behavior.

10. Whistleblower Responsibilities

Whistleblowers are expected to:

• Provide as much detail as possible in their reports, including supporting evidence, if available.
• Cooperate fully with any investigation conducted by the organization.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding the report and investigation to protect the integrity of the process.

11. False Reports

While the organization encourages the reporting of suspected wrongdoing, any individual who knowingly makes a false or malicious report will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment or legal action, depending on the severity of the case.

12. Contact Information

For any questions about this notice or to report suspected wrongdoing, please contact:

Compliance Officer

Email: report@GekoCrypto

Acknowledgement

By using the reporting channels provided or engaging in any form of whistleblowing, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms outlined in this Whistleblower Notice.