Money mules | Who are money mules, or "drops"?

Money mules help criminals launder money obtained through illegal activities. For example, funds stolen through cybercrime involving e-commerce and payment systems, including phishing, vishing and smishing.

A money mule, or "drop", is a person who agrees to use their bank card as a transit account for funds stolen by scammers.

⚠️ This chain of transfers is designed to conceal the criminals' tracks and make investigations more difficult. Money mules may move funds across different countries and on behalf of different individuals, helping offenders remain hidden.

❗️ Not every money mule realizes they are becoming part of a criminal scheme. Scammers often pose as cryptocurrency exchanges, brokerage firms and other seemingly legitimate businesses. People are lured by promises of quick and easy income, while the "money mule" receives a commission for helping transfer and conceal the funds.