'Money mule’ scam disguised as job offer
RACQ is warning members to be aware of money mule scams.
This scam typically sees victims lured with fake job offers promising high earnings for minimal effort.
RACQ Bank Head of Operations and Financial Crimes Sarah Richardson said money mule scams often appeared as legitimate work-from-home opportunities, but they were designed to trick individuals into laundering money.
“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated,” Ms Richardson said.
“They’re targeting people with ads that look professional and convincing, often using fake websites and social media pop-ups to appear genuine.”
The scam typically begins with an offer to earn easy money by receiving and forwarding funds or purchasing gift cards.
Victims are told they’ll receive a commission for their help, but in reality they are being used to disguise the origin of illicit funds.
“Once scammers have your information, they will often send you money to on-forward for them as a goodwill gesture and to build trust,” Ms Richardson said.
“A common method is asking you to purchase gift cards and provide the details to them electronically.
“This is not just risky, it could lead to criminal charges if you’re found to be involved in money laundering.”
Follow these tips to protect yourself
Do your research
Google the company before providing any information, check their official website and Scamwatch to ensure you are liaising with the genuine business. Do not provide any information until you have completed your own due diligence.
Don’t share information
Scammers often try to create urgency. No matter what is said, do not share personal or financial details like your PIN, passwords, driver licence number or passcodes. The urgency is to try to get you to ‘apply now’ so you don’t miss out on the ‘opportunity’.
Understand all the facts
If you send and receive funds on behalf of someone, this could be considered money laundering and lead to criminal charges if you are unable to confirm the source of the funds and the purpose of the transfers.
Report suspicious offers
If you believe you have fallen victim to this scam, stop the activity and call your bank immediately.
For more information or to report a scam, visit scamwatch.gov.au or contact your bank directly.
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Things to note
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