Why you must never allow anyone to deposit or transfer money through your account on their behalf
There has been a worrying rise in young women and girls being asked by boyfriends, friends, or even relatives to “help out” by moving money through their bank account.
It often sounds harmless.
“Can you hold this money for me?”
“Can I transfer something into your account quickly?”
“Can you send this on for me?”
“Can you keep this cash for me”
“It’s just temporary.”
“I do not have a UK bank account — could you deposit this cash into yours and then transfer it to someone for me?”
“I will give you a quarter of the money each time you transfer it.” (This may sound tempting, right?)
Sometimes it is framed as love.
Sometimes as loyalty.
Sometimes as a favour.
But what many people do not realise is this:
You could be committing a criminal offence — even if you did not know.
What Is Money Muling?
Money muling is when someone allows their bank account to be used to receive and transfer money that does not belong to them.
This money is often linked to:
- Fraud
- Online scams
- Drug trafficking
- Human trafficking
- Identity theft
- Organised crime
Criminals deliberately target people they believe are:
- In love
- Financially vulnerable
- Trusting
- Wanting to help
- Easily persuaded
They rely on emotional pressure.
“But I Trust Him…”
This is where it becomes dangerous.
Many cases involve:
- A boyfriend asking for “help”
- A partner saying their account is “blocked”
- A relative saying they “cannot use their account right now”
- A friend saying it is “just easier”
But here is the reality:
If illegal money passes through your account,
You are legally responsible.
Not them.
You.
What Can Happen to You?
If your bank detects suspicious activity:
- Your account can be frozen immediately
- You can lose access to all your money
- You may be reported to the police
- You may receive a criminal record
- You could be prosecuted
- You could struggle to open bank accounts in the future
- It could affect housing, employment, and immigration status
Even if you “did not know.”
Ignorance is not always a defence.
Why Women and Girls Are Being Targeted
Criminal networks often exploit:
- Emotional attachment
- Fear of losing a relationship
- Financial dependence
- Low confidence
- Loyalty
- Love
This is a form of financial exploitation and coercive control.
And it can happen to anyone — not just women. But women in romantic relationships are frequently targeted.
The Red Flags
Never ignore these warning signs:
- “My account is frozen.”
- “I cannot explain why.”
- “It’s urgent.”
- “Don’t tell anyone.”
- “You do not trust me?”
- “If you loved me, you would help.”
Healthy relationships do not require illegal favours.
A Simple Rule to Protect Yourself
Never:
- Deposit money for someone else.
- Transfer money on someone’s behalf.
- Allow large sums to enter your account that are not yours.
- Share your bank details.
- Let anyone use your card.
Your bank account is legally yours.
Protect it like your passport.
If You Have Already Done This
Do not panic — but act quickly.
- Stop immediately.
- Do not move any more money.
- Speak to your bank honestly.
- Seek independent advice.
- Consider speaking to a trusted professional or support service.
Early action can reduce long-term consequences.
Where to Get Help & Information (UK)
- Action Fraud: www.actionfraud.police.uk
- National Crime Agency (Money Mules): www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk
- Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): www.fca.org.uk
- Women’s Aid: www.womensaid.org.uk
If you feel pressured, threatened, or coerced — this may be abuse.
Empowered Living Means Protecting Yourself
Love should never put you at legal risk.
Loyalty should never cost you your future.
Financial independence includes understanding consequences.
At Severn Angels Housing & Support, we believe education is protection. Empowered women and girls, understand their worth, their rights, and their responsibilities.
No matter how much you care for someone, your safety and future must come first.
Protect your name.
Protect your bank account.
Protect your future.
