Protect Yourself from Becoming a Money Mule 

Published: 18 May 2023

You may have seen stories in the news recently about how university students can be targeted as money mules. Your safety and wellbeing is always our number one priority. This article aims to provide advice and guidance, including how you can protect yourself, and what to do if you have already been targeted. 

 

What is a Money Mule?   

Being a Money Mule is a type of scam where criminals recruit people, often students or young adults, to help them transfer stolen money. The criminal ensures that the victim or the ‘money mule’ bears the consequences instead of them. It is a a form of money laundering, which is a serious act of fraud often connected to organised crime.  

You may think you’re doing your friend a favour, but agreeing to someone using your bank account to transfer criminal money is against the law.     

What can I do to protect myself?  

  • Criminals may try to take advantage of students by offering them quick ways to make money as part of a money mule scheme. Be cautious of anyone asking to use your bank account to transfer money.  
  • Most victims of money muling are between 17 and 24. Many criminals target universities and colleges, and this can be online, in person or through friends and family.  
  • Remember: If a job advert seems too good to be true, and is not on an official, reputable job site - it’s best to avoid it.  
  • The attempts to recruit are often disguised as job adverts, emphasising that it’s an easy way to earn quick money – which might be tempting for students. 
  • Don’t give your personal or financial details to anyone you don’t know or trust, even if they’re being passed through your friends and family.  
  • Find job opportunities from more trustworthy sources. UofG Careers Service has The Student Job Hub where you can find a wide range of vacancies and opportunities.

Please remember if you are struggling financially, UofG emergency funding may be available to support your studies.  

What can I do if I suspect I’ve been a victim of a money mule scam?  

If you suspect you’ve become a ‘money mule’, you should act quickly to minimize the damage. You should:  

  • Break off all contact and don’t receive or send any more money.  
  • Contact your bank to report the scam and they will be able to help you freeze your account and investigate the transactions.  
  • Report the scam to the police. 

Access support  

If you think you have been the victim of fraud, or if you are unsure about whether you have been contacted by a legitimate organisation there is no need to feel ashamed: we are here to help you. You can get in touch with the UofG Student Services or contact the UofG Security Team.   

How can I report suspected fraud?  

  • Call local Police to report the fraud on 101 or 999 in an emergency.  
  • Contact the HMRC Fraud Hotline on 0800 788 887 quoting reference IFMM23. You do not have to give your name or contact details unless you want to.  
  • If you think someone you know is already involved, go to the National Crime Agency website for advice.  

Find out more /Support Services Available  

Download the SafeZone App to contact the UofG Security Team. 

Visit the National Crime Agency website to find out more about Money Muling  

First published: 18 May 2023

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