The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has issued an important warning about scams where criminals offer payments in exchange for access to people’s bank accounts. You can read the full AFP media release here.

What is a money mule?

Criminal networks are always searching for new ways to launder illegally-derived money. Increasingly, they are turning to money mules – individuals who are recruited (knowingly or unknowingly) to move illicit money through their accounts to make funds appear legitimate.

Some people are even lured into renting or selling their accounts in exchange for quick cash.

How people are targeted

Scammers use a variety of methods to recruit money mules, including:

• • Social media and messaging apps

• • Gaming platforms and chat forums

• • Online ads and even face-to-face meetings

Sometimes, the approach looks like legitimate work: a flexible, work-from-home job promoted online. In other cases, victims believe they’re helping a friend or romantic partner they’ve met online. More recently, criminals have brazenly advertised – often on social media – offering to pay money to rent or buy people’s accounts. The AFP is clear: It is illegal to rent, buy or sell bank accounts.

The risks of selling or renting your bank account

People who sell or rent their account put themselves at serious risk, including:

• • Police investigations and criminal charges – for example, in April 2025, a Sydney woman was jailed for renting bank accounts to a money laundering syndicate.

• • Closure of bank accounts.

• • Disclosure of personal information to criminals.

How to protect yourself

• • Never sell or rent your bank accounts.

• • Never share your banking logins or personal details.

• • Always do your own independent research before engaging in opportunities online.

Don’t let cybercriminals turn you into a money mule

Money laundering is a serious criminal offence, with charges carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. At Summerland Bank, we want to keep our customers and communities safe. If you’re ever unsure about a message, opportunity, or online offer relating to your bank accounts, please contact us directly before taking any action.