Frequent questions

What is Whistler?

Whistler is an application that enables users to report legal violations or irregularities in a secure and anonymous manner. Users register by selecting a username and password, which allows them to access the application and track the status of their report. The application guarantees the security and anonymity of whistleblowers, even if they choose not to disclose their identity to investigators.

Whistler enables users to:

  • Submit anonymous or signed reports,
  • Track the status of the report and the outcome of the investigation,
  • Communicate with the investigator via a secure system,
  • Update the report by adding documents or additional information.

Forgotten passwords cannot be reset; users must register again and inform the investigator about any previous reports.


Who Can Use the Whistler Application?

The system is intended for bank employees and other stakeholders who wish to report activities harmful to the bank and its employees, including potential regulatory sanctions, criminal liability, or damage to the bank’s reputation.

The whistleblowing system is not intended for general business inquiries, customer complaints, or rports of workplace harassment.


Report Handling Process

Reports are received by the Director of Compliance and Business Integrity. After an initial review, the report is assigned to an investigator. Communication between the whistleblower and the investigator is essential for conducting a thorough investigation. The investigator aims to gather as much accurate and reliable information as possible.

Experience has shown that anonymous reports may be less effective, as whistleblowers may unintentionally omit important details (e.g. what happened, when and where it occurred, and who was involved), which are crucial for conducting a focused investigation. The whistleblower is notified of the conclusion of the investigation via the Whistler application.


Why is Reporting Irregularities Important?

Whistleblowers help the bank respond appropriately to irregularities, prevent harm, and protect the interests and reputation of the bank, its employees, clients, and other stakeholders. It is recommended that reports address key questions such as what happened, where and when it occurred, and who was involved.


Protection of whistleblowers

The bank ensures strict protection of the information reported as well as the identity of the whistleblower, in accordance with personal data protection regulations and whistleblower protection laws. The data is stored separately and protected from unauthorized access. In the case of signed reports, only authorized persons have access to the data.


Alternative Reporting Channels

In addition to the Whistler application, irregularities can also be reported via:

  • Email: prijava.nepravilnosti@nlbkb.rs
  • Postal mail: NLB Komercijalna banka, Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165 V, Belgrade, addressed to the Compliance and Integrity Director, marked “DO NOT OPEN”
  • In person: by contacting an authorized person, with the possibility of arranging a meeting outside bank premises.

Conclusion

The Whistler application provides a safe and reliable way to report irregularities, offering whistleblowers protection, anonymity, and the ability to communicate with investigators. Its use allows the bank to respond efficiently to irregularities, improve operations, and safeguard the interests of employees and stakeholders.