Tasmanians are being warned that “easy money” job offers landing in their inboxes and social media feeds could draw them into organised crime.
Criminals are recruiting everyday people as “money mules” to move illegal funds through their bank accounts, often disguising the activity as legitimate work or a quick way to earn extra cash.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania chair David Daniels said money mules helped criminals move and hide proceeds from offences including cybercrime, fraud, drug trafficking and human exploitation.
He said a key focus of a new ‘Don’t fall into the money trap’ campaign launched today was helping people spot the warning signs of recruitment before they became victims.
“Organised crime groups deliberately create opportunities that appear legitimate,” he said.
“They know people are looking for work, looking to earn extra money or simply trying to help someone they trust.”
Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Rob Blackwood said many people recruited as money mules did not realise they were being manipulated until it was too late.
“Organised crime groups are highly skilled at making these approaches appear legitimate,” he said.
“What may look like a simple job opportunity or quick way to make money can actually involve moving criminal funds and supporting serious offending.”
He said moving money for someone else might seem harmless but could expose people to serious legal and financial consequences.
The consequences can be particularly severe for international students, who may face frozen bank accounts, identity theft and visa cancellation, as well as criminal charges.
The warning comes as Crime Stoppers Australia launches a national anti-money laundering campaign aimed at exposing recruitment tactics and disrupting organised crime.
According to industry reporting, Australia’s major banks closed almost 13,000 suspected money mule accounts during the 2023–24 financial year.
Blackwood urged anyone who believed they had been caught up in a scheme to report it to authorities.
Tasmanians who believe they have been targeted or involved in a money mule scheme can contact Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.
Reports can be made anonymously.
