Scammers often use romantic relationships and online friendships to gain trust before asking for financial favors. Even if it feels personal and real, this is a tactic to involve you in laundering money.
A money mule is someone criminals exploit to move and disguise illegally obtained funds. They often try to recruit people through online job postings, social media, fake investment opportunities, prize offers, or even dating websites.
Essential Tips to Avoid Money Mule Scams:
- Never open an account to receive or transfer money for an employer or for anyone else.
- Never pay to collect a prize or transfer money from “winnings.”
- Never send money to online love interests, even if they appear to send you money first.
- Do not listen to anyone offering you a “great investment” or asking you to deposit into a Bitcoin ATM.
- Never purchase cryptocurrency or gift cards on behalf of, or for, someone you met online.
- Never share your bank passcodes or provide anyone access to your bank account, online credentials, debit card number, or PIN.
You could lose your money and get in trouble with the law.
If You Suspect a Scam:
- End all contact with the individual and stop sending or moving money.
- Call our Fraud Department at (812) 492-8200.
- Report it to the Federal Bureau of Investigation at IC3.gov and the United States Postal Inspection Service at uspis.gov/report.
