Beware the Money mule

Spotting scammers isn’t easy. In the first half of 2023, over £580 million was stolen via fraud in the UK and a sizeable chunk involved people known as ‘money mules’.

Money mules move money illegally

A money mule is a person who allows a criminal to use their bank account to transfer money. Even if you don’t know you’re taking part in criminal activity, you could end up with a criminal record.  

Look out for unusual behaviour

Be cautious of anyone who:

• Wants to use your bank account
• Provides a ‘cut’ or percentage of money you transfer for them 
• Asks for your banking details or activation codes
• Offers quick cash, investments, or even job offers that appear questionable or too good to be true.

Pay particular attention to suspicious behaviour online, especially across social media, dating apps, or anything similar.   

Being a money mule has serious consequences

Regardless of whether you’re in the loop, being a money mule could result in the following:

• You could face criminal proceedings
• Your bank account could be closed, and it may be harder to get another account
• You may struggle to get any form of credit (including phone contracts, business loans and home loans)
• You could be putting yourself and your family at risk – the people organising the crime, known as ‘mule herders’, can resort to violence or threats if you don’t let them continue using your account.

Get in touch if you’re concerned

The best thing you could do as an unsuspecting money mule is to contact us immediately.

Your safety and security are our priority

We have a dedicated Economic Crime team investigating all types of fraudulent activity to help make sure our customers and their money are safe.

Our security and fraud section within the Support Hub has useful information about spotting scammers and keeping you safe. 

If you suspect someone of being a money mule, you can also contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

More on money mules

Visit UK Finance or the National Crime Agency for more information on money mules.