Don't fall for into the trap!
Criminals use fake jobs, text messages and social media messages to recruit people to move money through their bank accounts. What seems like easy money could put your finances, identity and future at risk. Know the signs. Protect yourself. If someone is offering money in exchange for using your bank account, receiving payments, or transferring money for them, that’s a major warning sign.
Many people are approached through job advertisements, social media, messaging apps and online communities.
You were right to check before responding.
What Is a Money Trap or Money Mule?
A money mule is someone who receives or transfers money on behalf of another person. Sometimes people knowingly agree to do this. Often, they do not realise they are being recruited by criminals until it is too late.
Criminals deliberately target international students through job offers, easy money schemes, social media messages and requests to use personal bank accounts. If someone wants access to your bank account, stop and think. Legitimate employers do not use your personal bank account to move money.
Money mule activity is commonly linked to fraud, scams and organised crime.
You may be told:
These are common recruitment tactics
- It’s a simple job
- It’s an easy way to earn money
- You’re helping a business process payments
- You will be paid a commission for each transfer
DON'T BECOME A MONEY MULE
Know the Warning Signs
Be cautious if someone offers:
- Quick or easy money
- High pay for very little work
- Flexible work with no experience required
- Payment simply for using your bank account
Be cautious if someone asks you to:
- Receive money into your bank account
- Transfer money to another person
- Open a bank account for someone else
- Share your banking details
- Share your online banking access
- Provide identity documents
UNDERSTAND THE RECRUITMENT TACTICS
How Criminals Target People
Criminals often approach people through:
- Social media
- Messaging apps
- Job websites
- Online marketplaces
- Community groups
- Student networks
- Friends or acquaintances
They often promise:
- Easy money
- Fast payments
- Flexible work
- Work-from-home opportunities
- No experience required
Their goal is to gain access to your bank account, identity or personal information.
BEING INVOLVED IN MONEY MULE ACTIVITY CAN HAVE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES
Getting Involved Could Cost You Everything
Your Bank Account:
- Accounts may be frozen or restricted
- Transactions may be investigated
- Access to banking services may be affected
Your Identity:
- Personal information may be misused
- Identity theft can occur
- Fraudulent accounts may be created in your name
Your Future:
- Employment opportunities may be affected
- Visa holders may face additional consequences
- You may become involved in criminal investigations
WATCH THE CAMPAIGN
See the campaign in action
Know the Consequences Before You Say Yes.
LEARN THE SIGNS. STAY SAFE.
Protect Yourself
Always
Research employers before accepting work
Verify job opportunities independently
Be cautious of easy money offers
Ask questions if something doesn't feel right
Seek advice if you're unsure
Never
Share your bank account details unnecessarily
Share online banking access
Let someone else use your account
Transfer money for people you do not know
Share identity documents without checking who is requesting them
RESOURCES & DOWNLOADS
Anti-Money Laundering Resources
Anti-Money Laundering Resources Pack
Learn how to identify money laundering and money mule activity.
자금세탁 방지 자료 모음 | 한국어
자금세탁과 머니뮬 활동을 식별하고 익명으로 정보를 제공하는 방법을 알아보세요.
मनी लाउन्ड्रिङ रोकथाम स्रोत सामग्री | नेपाली
मनी लाउन्ड्रिङ र मनी म्युल गतिविधि पहिचान गरी गोप्य रूपमा जानकारी दिने तरिका जान्नुहोस्।
ਮਨੀ ਲਾਂਡਰਿੰਗ ਰੋਕਥਾਮ ਸਰੋਤ ਪੈਕ | ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
ਮਨੀ ਲਾਂਡਰਿੰਗ ਅਤੇ ਮਨੀ ਮਿਊਲ ਗਤੀਵਿਧੀਆਂ ਦੀ ਪਛਾਣ ਕਰਕੇ ਗੁਪਤ ਰੂਪ ਵਿੱਚ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ ਦੇਣਾ ਸਿੱਖੋ।
反洗钱资源包 | 简体中文
下载反洗钱资源包，了解如何识别洗钱及钱骡活动并匿名提供信息。
Bộ Tài Liệu Chống Rửa Tiền | Tiếng Việt
Tìm hiểu cách nhận biết hoạt động rửa tiền, tài khoản trung gian và báo cáo thông tin ẩn danh.
GOT QUESTIONS?
Frequently asked questions
What is Crime Stoppers in Australia?
Crime Stoppers is an independent not-for-profit organisation that partners with the community, media and police to encourage people to prevent crime and to confidentially share what they know about unsolved crime or suspicious activity.
Crime Stoppers believes everyone has the right to feel safe from crime. We share practical advice on how you can protect your community, and the people and things that are important to you.
When you make a report, you don’t have to leave your personal details with us, your call isn’t recorded and, if you make a report online, your IP address isn’t stored. You are in control of the reporting process – you choose how much information you share and whether you want to remain anonymous.
Since we started in Victoria in 1987, we have received over 1.69 million tips from the community, resulting in over 30,717 arrests and the recovery of more than $476 million worth of drugs, property and cash.
Learn more here.
What is a money mule?
A money mule is someone who receives or transfers money for another person, often as part of criminal activity.
Is moving money for someone else illegal?
It can be. If the money is connected to criminal activity, there may be serious consequences.
What should I do if someone asks to use my bank account?
Do not provide access to your account. Stop communicating with the person and seek advice if you are unsure.
What happens if I have already shared my details?
Contact your bank immediately, secure your accounts and access support services.
Can I remain anonymous when reporting to Crime Stoppers?
Yes. Information can be provided anonymously.
Do I need proof before making a report?
No. Information can still be valuable, even if you do not have proof. It could be the missing piece of the puzzle.
HELP SOLVE CRIME
Seen something risky? Tell us.
If you’ve seen behaviour that could be part of a money trap, report it to Crime Stoppers 24/7 — anonymously, online or by phone. You choose how much you share.
Record what you can, only if it's safe to do so
Start your report online in minutes
Upload any photos or footage you have
Add details like time, place and a description
Report online anonymously in minutes with the Crime Stoppers Victoria's online reporting platform. Watch how