You must be very careful when working with an agent or third party (this includes a distributor, consultant, partner, or other middleman). Under the FCPA, if your agent bribes a foreign official, you and the Company may be held responsible.
FCPA cases often start when the United States Justice Department learns that a company was awarded new business in a foreign country after the company's local agent arranged some favors for his friends in government.
Before retaining or working with an agent, be smart: first exercise "due diligence" by conducting a thorough background check of the agent's identity, methods of doing business, and conduct. If there are any "red flags," you must be especially thorough. Also, get all agreements with your agent in writing and have them reviewed by Company legal counsel.