Could you be targeted as a ‘money mule’ – here’s what to look out for

If you’re on social media, chances are you’ve seen posts promising easy money, quick cash, or ‘no-experience’ jobs. But behind many of these offers is a growing type of crime called money muling and young people are being targeted more than ever.

Why it matters

In 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) reported a 22% rise in personal bank accounts being used for money muling compared with 2023, over 207,000 cases.

The biggest group involved are people aged 22–29, making up 33% of cases.

Fraud experts say this problem has exploded in recent years. Online scams now make up around 40% of all recorded crime.

Experts are especially worried during school and university holidays, when young people might be short on cash or looking for quick ways to earn money.

What is a money mule scam?

A money mule is someone who is used to move stolen money for criminals, sometimes without even realising it.

Here’s how it often works:

• someone asks to send money to your bank account
• they then tell you to send it on, withdraw it, or pass it to someone else
• in return, they offer you a ‘cut’ and make it sound like easy money

But the reality is:

• you’re helping criminals hide where stolen money came from
• the original sender is often another scam victim
• you can be held legally responsible, even if you didn’t know it was a scam

If money moves through your account, you are involved, whether you meant to be or not.

Common money mule scams to watch out for

Criminals are clever, and they use stories that sound believable. These are some of the most common ways you could be tricked:

Romance scams

Scammers build fake online relationships and then convince their victims to move money ‘as a favour’.

They might say they’re an investor or that their bank account isn’t working. But they’re lying and you could be laundering money for them.

Work-from-home job scams

These fake jobs often advertise titles like ‘payment processor’ or ‘financial assistant’.

You’re told your job is to accept and transfer money, but in reality, you’re helping criminals move stolen funds.

Prize or lottery scams

You’re told you’ve won a prize, lottery or sweepstake. But you have to pay fees first or hand over your bank details.

Once they have that information, they might send stolen money through your account, or worse, steal your identity.

Red flags to watch for

Be suspicious if:

• someone asks for access to your bank account
• you’re asked to transfer or withdraw money you don’t recognise
• a ‘job’ involves moving money for other people
• a new romantic connection wants your help with financial transfers

What to do if it happens to you

If money you weren’t expecting shows up in your bank account:

• don’t touch it
• contact your bank immediately
• report it to the police

Never follow instructions from a stranger about money in your account. It’s not worth the risk.

Money mule scams are easy to fall for, especially when you’re trying to make quick cash or help someone you trust. But the consequences can last for years.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Protect your account. Trust your instincts. And don’t let anyone use you.