Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Glossary Definition

Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) of 1977 (FCPA) (15 U.S.C. 78dd-1, et seq.) is a United States federal law known primarily for two of its main provisions: one that addresses accounting transparency requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and another concerning bribery of foreign officials. The Act was amended in 1988 and in 1998 and has been subject to continued congressional concerns, namely whether its enforcement discourages U.S. companies from investing abroad.

See also: FCPA.

In security and compliance work, this term helps teams describe controls, risks, identity practices, standards, audits, or protective technologies. It is relevant when managing access, reducing exposure, documenting safeguards, or demonstrating accountability.