Public urged to be vigilant to avoid 'money muling'

We’re urging the public to be vigilant following reports of criminals using social media including TikTok and Instagram to harvest bank details.

Usually, the criminal will approach the person on social media with the offer of a home-based job which promises large amounts of money for very little work.

The person will provide the criminal with their bank details who will then transfer illegal money into the person’s account as a ‘wage’.

As the ‘job’ progresses the person will start to receive money into their account, often from other victims of fraud or associated crime. This is known as a money mule account.

A money mule account is when a bank is used by criminals to move, hide, or cash out the proceeds of crime. Criminals recruit individuals, willingly or through deception, to receive and transfer illicit funds on their behalf.

Detective Sergeant Kev Appleby from Cleveland Police’s Fraud Team said: “Allowing the use of your bank account for this activity is money laundering and it is illegal.

“It can lead to a criminal record, your bank account being closed and a ruined credit history which can incur financial problems into later life.”

Protect yourself:

• STOP if the offer sounds too good to be true
• CHECK that the job and employer are legitimate
• REJECT any request to use your bank account or share your personal details

If you believe that your account has been used as a mule account, then follow the following steps:

• Stop all contact with the person who involved you
• Do NOT move or return any money
• Contact your bank or financial institution
• Report the incident to Report Fraud
• Secure your accounts and personal information
• Seek support if you feel distressed or unsure