Whistle-Blowing Policy for KnW Technology Consulting

Purpose

KnW Technology Consulting is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and compliance in all its operations. This Whistle-Blowing Policy establishes a framework for employees, contractors, and stakeholders to report concerns about unethical, illegal, or improper activities without fear of retaliation. The policy aims to foster transparency, accountability, and a culture of ethical conduct.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, consultants, vendors, and other stakeholders associated with KnW Technology Consulting, regardless of their location or role within the organization.

Definitions

• Whistle-Blower: An individual who reports suspected wrongdoing, such as fraud, corruption, harassment, discrimination, violation of company policies, or illegal activities.
• Wrongdoing: Any activity that violates laws, regulations, company policies, or ethical standards, including but not limited to financial misconduct, data breaches, workplace safety violations, or conflicts of interest.

Policy Statement

KnW Technology Consulting encourages individuals to report concerns about wrongdoing in good faith. The company is committed to:

• Protecting whistle-blowers from retaliation, harassment, or adverse employment consequences.
• Investigating reported concerns promptly, thoroughly, and impartially.
• Maintaining confidentiality to the extent possible, subject to legal and investigative requirements.
• Taking appropriate corrective action when wrongdoing is substantiated.

Reporting Procedures

1. What to Report:
   
• Suspected fraud, embezzlement, or financial misconduct.
• Violations of data protection or cybersecurity policies.
• Harassment, discrimination, or hostile work environment issues.
• Breaches of company policies, codes of conduct, or legal regulations.
• Any other unethical or illegal activities that may harm the company, its employees, or stakeholders.
2. How to Report:
   
• Internal Reporting: Concerns should be reported to the designated Whistle-Blowing Officer, who can be contacted via:
  
• Email: incidentreport.dictate873@aleeas.com
• Confidential Hotline:
• In-Person: Schedule a confidential meeting with the Whistle-Blowing Officer or Human Resources.
• Anonymous Reporting: Whistle-blowers may choose to report anonymously through the confidential hotline or a dedicated online portal [Insert Portal Link, if applicable]. Anonymous reports should provide sufficient detail to enable investigation.
• External Reporting: If internal reporting is not feasible or appropriate, whistle-blowers may report to external regulatory authorities, provided they comply with applicable laws.
3. Information to Include:
   
• A detailed description of the concern or incident.
• Names of individuals involved, if known.
• Dates, times, and locations of the incident(s).
• Any supporting evidence, such as documents or communications.

Investigation Process

1. Receipt of Report: The Whistle-Blowing Officer will acknowledge receipt of the report within 5 business days.
2. Initial Assessment: The officer will assess whether the report warrants further investigation. If the concern falls outside the scope of this policy, the whistle-blower will be informed.
3. Investigation: If warranted, an impartial investigation will be conducted, which may involve internal or external resources. The process will be confidential, and updates will be provided to the whistle-blower as appropriate.
4. Resolution: Upon completion, findings will be documented, and appropriate corrective actions will be taken. The whistle-blower will be informed of the outcome, subject to confidentiality and legal constraints.

Protection for Whistle-Blowers

• Non-Retaliation: KnW Technology Consulting strictly prohibits retaliation against whistle-blowers who report in good faith. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, termination, demotion, harassment, or exclusion.
• Confidentiality: The identity of the whistle-blower will be protected to the fullest extent possible, except where disclosure is required by law or necessary for the investigation.
• Support: Whistle-blowers will have access to support resources, including counseling services through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Responsibilities

• Employees and Stakeholders: Report concerns promptly and in good faith, providing accurate and detailed information.
• Managers and Supervisors: Foster an environment that encourages reporting and supports the policy.
• Whistle-Blowing Officer: Oversee the policy, ensure confidential handling of reports, and coordinate investigations.
• Human Resources: Support investigations and ensure compliance with employment laws and policies.

False or Malicious Reports

Reports made in bad faith or with malicious intent may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract, in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to ensure it remains effective and compliant with applicable laws and regulations. Updates will be communicated to all employees and stakeholders.

Contact Information

For questions or guidance on this policy, contact the Whistle-Blowing Officer at:

• Email: incidentreport.dictate873@aleeas.com
• Phone:
• Address: KnW Technology Consulting

Effective Date

This policy is effective as of August 4, 2025.

1. Access the Reporting Platform

• Visit our secure reporting portal page here or call our confidential hotline .

2. Choose Anonymity

• Indicate whether you wish to remain anonymous. Our system ensures your identity will not be disclosed unless you choose otherwise.

3. Provide Detailed Information

• Clearly describe the issue, including dates, locations, individuals involved, and any relevant evidence or documentation you can share.
• Be as specific as possible to help us investigate the matter effectively.

4. Submit the Report

• Once all necessary information is provided, click “Submit” or confirm your submission over the hotline. You will receive a unique case number for future reference.

5. Follow-Up (Optional)

• Use your case number to check the status of your report or provide additional information if needed. This can be done anonymously through the same portal or hotline.

6. Confidential Investigation

• Our team will review and investigate the report thoroughly while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the process.

7. Resolution and Feedback

• If applicable, updates or resolution feedback will be shared through the reporting platform while safeguarding anonymity.

This step-by-step guide ensures clarity, encouraging individuals to report issues while fostering trust in the process.