As a further step in the fight against corruption and other economic criminal activities, the Volkswagen Group has appointed two external lawyers as ombudsmen (confidential lawyers) as part of its whistle-blower system. They are available as points of contact to all persons, who are willing to report confidential evidence of suspected crimes of this type or of similarly serious irregularities relating to the Volkswagen Group or one of the brands of the Group. Evidence is forwarded to the Volkswagen Group after examination by the ombudsmen. Because of the lawyers' duty of confidentiality and the lawyers' right to refuse to give evidence, it is ensured that the identity of the whistle-blower is reliably protected and not disclosed to Volkswagen or to third parties.