Money Mule
Someone who moves money for criminals, often unknowingly, which is illegal.
How it appears in scam messages
Money mule recruitment is dressed up as an easy job, a favour, or a way to help someone receive funds: money is sent to your account and you're asked to forward most of it, keeping a cut. It often comes through 'work-from-home', 'payment agent', or romance and crypto schemes. Moving money for others this way is a crime, even if you didn't realise the source was fraud.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: Easy income — we'll deposit funds to your account, you send most onward and keep a commission.
Why it matters
Receiving and forwarding money for others can make you liable.
Common red flags
- A 'job' that involves receiving and forwarding money
- Commission for passing payments through your account
- Use of your personal bank account for someone else's funds
- Vague explanations of where the money comes from
Safe next steps
- Stop and verify through official channels you find yourself
- Never share codes, passwords, or card details from a message
- Use the message checker if you are unsure
- Report and block the sender
Related scam types
Related scam-type hubs
Related red flags
Frequently asked questions
How can I avoid money mule?
Slow down, never act on urgency, and verify through official apps or websites you open yourself. Use the free checker if a message seems off.
What if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides.