Money mule
A money mule is someone who takes in money from a scam or theft and forwards it to the criminals, blurring where it came from. Some mules know exactly what they're doing, but many are duped, recruited through fake jobs, romance scams, or 'help me transfer funds' requests, with no idea they're laundering proceeds. Serving as a mule can bring serious legal consequences even when it's unintentional.
How we check this: Written and reviewed by the Hunch team; recognition signs reflect how the FTC/FBI describe this scam. · Last reviewed: 2026-08
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Example
A 'remote payment processing' job asks you to receive money into your own bank account and forward it on, keeping a cut as commission. The incoming funds are actually stolen from other victims, and you've become the layer that hides the trail.
How to recognize it
- A job that involves receiving money and forwarding it for a commission
- A request to open a new account or receive funds on someone's behalf
- An online partner or 'employer' asking to route money through you
- Vague explanations for why the money can't go directly to its destination
How Hunch flags it
Hunch keys on signal categories like payment-handling requests from unverified employers or contacts and the urgency and secrecy around moving funds, flagging offers built around receiving and forwarding money.
FAQ
Can I be a money mule without knowing it?
Yes. Many mules are recruited through fake jobs or online relationships and believe they're doing legitimate work while actually moving stolen money.
Is being a money mule illegal?
Moving criminal proceeds can lead to frozen accounts and criminal charges, even if you didn't know the money was stolen, so it's a serious risk.
What if I think I've been used as a mule?
Stop all further transfers, keep records, and contact your bank and local authorities to report what happened as soon as possible.