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What is money muling and what should I do if I’ve been used as a money mule?

A money mule (also known as a ‘smurfer’) is someone who receives and moves illegally acquired money (e.g. stolen through scams) on behalf of someone else.

They might move it physically from one location to another, but more commonly, they move it by letting someone make money transfers through their bank account.

Criminals often target young people and students through Snapchat and Instagram promising that it’s a risk-free way to make hundreds of pounds in minutes. They often use time sensitive offers to pressure people into accepting money muling offers, saying things like ‘final offer – expires in 10 minutes/only 3 positions remaining.’

They also recruit mules through job ads with titles like “payment processing agent”, “money transfer agent”, or “local processor”. They often offer a reward, like cash or a gift, for moving the money – but it’s important to know this is illegal. 

Let’s go over the consequences of money muling and what to do if you’re worried you’ve been used as a money mule.

What are the consequences?

It might seem harmless, but money muling is illegal and can lead to a criminal record, getting involved can risk you having your bank accounts shut down, losing access to loans and potential job opportunities, and even putting your family and friends in danger.

Shockingly, over half of young people don’t realise they could go to prison for up to 14 years for moving money for someone else.

You’re not just risking your future – you could put your family at risk too.

Don’t Be Fooled

We’ve teamed up with UK Finance and Cifas on their ‘Don’t Be Fooled’ campaign, helping young people understand the risks of giving out their bank details and aims to stop them from getting involved in money muling.

Visit their website dontbefooled.org.uk for lots of useful information helping you recognise money mule scams and the consequences if you’re caught. For example:

If you’re aged 16 or under:

  • You could be putting yourself and your family at risk
  • Your bank account will be closed
  • It will be very difficult to get a phone contract
  • You will find it difficult to get a student loan for college or university
  • You could find it difficult to get a job when you leave school
  • It is a crime

If you’re aged 17-22

  • Your bank account will be closed
  • You could be putting yourself and your family at risk
  • You will find it difficult to get student loans and could be thrown out of university
  • Your health and wellbeing could be impacted
  • It is is a crime
This is how they turn you into a money mule

Three steps to take

If you’ve been used as a money mule, it’s crucial to act swiftly, responsibly, and in accordance with the law to minimise the legal trouble and other consequences of your involvement as a money mule.

Take these three steps to help you get yourself out of this dangerous situation.

The very first thing you should do to get yourself out of money muling is to stop everything. Don’t transfer any more money and break off all contact. This is super important to get free from this situation.

It sounds scary, but it’s vital that you talk to the police about what’s been going on. It’s not about getting into trouble; it’s about getting out of trouble. They need to know what’s happening, and cooperating with them might help you avoid serious consequences. Criminals operate in silence – by talking about it, you are protecting others.

You can contact your local Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. If you prefer not to give your details to the police, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously online or by calling 0800 555 111.

It’s important to have someone you can talk to who knows the legal stuff. So, find a lawyer who can help you understand your situation.

You have the right to free legal advice if you’re questioned at a police station. You’ll also automatically get legal aid for legal representation in court if you’re under 16 (or under 18 and in full-time education) or on certain benefits.

Otherwise, you may be eligible for Legal Aid if you cannot afford the costs of the legal process. If you cannot get legal aid, you may be able to get free advice from:

the Law Centres Network
Citizens Advice
AdviceNow

And don’t forget to talk to someone you trust, like a friend or family member. They can offer emotional support and help you cope with the stress that comes with all of this. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help.

You can find more charities and organisations that may be able to support you with things like mental health, fraud, and abuse guidance on our signposting page: Where to find help

Summary

Remember, you have a bright future ahead of you, and getting involved in illegal activities like money muling can have serious consequences. Take a moment to learn the warning signs, and if you’ve been used as a money mule it’s important to act quickly – take the steps above to get yourself back on track and put the situation behind you.

Be quick, be responsible, and follow the law to minimise the trouble from your involvement as a money mule.

Learn how to protect yourself, your friends, and your family at: https://dontbefooled.org.uk

You can also follow the campaign on Instagram @dontbefooled__ and TikTok @dontbefooled_.