Purpose The purpose of this review is to unpack 2017-2018 US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) whistleblower developments and trends. Design/methodology/approach This paper draws on statistics in the SEC’s 2017 Annual Report to Congress on the Whistleblower Program and examines post-report SEC whistleblower activity, including three SEC whistleblower awards in March 2018 totaling $80 million+. Findings Several notable whistleblowing developments and trends have emerged in recent years, including an increase in total tips; an increase in international tips; higher-value awards, including multiple awards in excess of $20m; and interest in punishing companies that discourage and/or retaliate against whistleblowers. In addition, the SEC recently issued its first-ever award under the Exchange Act’s “safe harbor” provision. Originality/value This paper contains valuable insights about the activities and priorities of the SEC Office of the Whistleblower from experienced securities and white-collar-litigation lawyers.