Money mules

Someone asks you if they can temporarily transfer money to your payment account. What’s more, you can keep some of it. What an easy way to make money! But be careful, doesn’t it sound too good to be true? You’re laundering money without realizing it. You’re what is called a money mule. This is someone who allows their payment account, debit card and PIN code to be used by criminals. Criminals often recruit money mules online or on the street, such as the school playground.

What happens if I’m a money mule?

If you’re a money mule, you illegally transfer money to criminals via your payment account. This is a crime. You can be prosecuted under criminal law. As a result, you can end up with a serious debt and a criminal record. This means you will probably not be eligible for financial services such as a mortgage to buy a house.

Do you think you’re a money mule? If so, the police will consider you a suspect. Do the following:

    Stop transferring or keeping any money immediately Report it to the police Inform your bank Block your debit card and/or credit card and change your PIN codes

A money mule doesn’t make the same mistake twice

You may already have had or are about to receive a proposal. It is wise not to accept it (again). The following tips will help you.

    Have you been contacted via the internet, email, chat, letter, telephone or on the street? Don’t agree to it. Never simply give permission to have money transferred to your payment account. Has money been deposited? Do not withdraw the money for anyone else - contact your bank and the police. Your debit card and PIN code are intended for you and nobody else. Does a plan sound too good to be true? It probably is.

What are the risks if you are used as a money mule?

In the video, we explain what a money mule is. Check out our tips so you know what to look out for. Watch this video or with subtitles on YouTube.

Check and report fraud

Do you feel something is not quite right or are you being used as a money mule? Please report it.