{"id":19438,"date":"2023-10-25T16:40:47","date_gmt":"2023-10-25T15:40:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ccpc.ie\/consumers\/?p=19438"},"modified":"2024-01-25T14:21:09","modified_gmt":"2024-01-25T14:21:09","slug":"dont-get-fooled-into-becoming-a-money-mule","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ccpc.inventise.ie\/consumers\/2023\/10\/25\/dont-get-fooled-into-becoming-a-money-mule\/","title":{"rendered":"Don\u2019t get fooled into becoming a money mule"},"content":{"rendered":"

With the cost of living remaining high, criminals are taking advantage by offering ways to make quick and easy money.<\/p>\n

Recent figures released by FraudSMART reported that over 2,600 money mule accounts were identified in the first half of this year alone. The majority of these accounts belonged to people between the ages of 18 and 24. With the college term back in full swing and the cost of living remaining high, students should be extra vigilant for these scams.<\/p>\n

What does a money mule do?<\/h2>\n

A money mule is a person recruited by criminals to receive illegal money into their bank account and transfer it to other accounts. This money is often used then for more serious offences such as drug or people trafficking which means that money mules face severe consequences if caught.<\/p>\n

Ignorance is no defence. Even though you might get scammed into becoming a money mule, you will still be involved in a criminal act and risk exposing yourself to criminal liability.<\/p>\n

How a money mule scam works<\/h2>\n

Scammers typically contact you through your social media channels, online messaging apps or by email. You\u2019ll be directly offered commission in exchange for receiving money into your account and then sending it somewhere else. The method used to move the money will usually be a money transfer service.<\/p>\n

Fraudsters will try to convince you that you can make money in a legitimate way. The potential for easy money might make it seem tempting.<\/p>\n

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Golden Rule<\/h3>\n

Remember to stop, check and think. Always take a step back if you suspect a scam offer and do not engage. Getting caught up in money muling unintentionally can land you with a criminal record and impact your long-term future even if you\u2019re still a college student.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Protect yourself<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s important to know what to look out for so you don\u2019t fall victim to a money mule scam.<\/p>\n

Here are the most common signs:<\/p>\n