RESIDENTS have been warned to watch out for "money mule" adverts as fraudsters seek to hide their ill-gotten gains.

Criminals are using fake job adverts and creating social media posts about opportunities to make money quickly to lure potential recruits.

After agreeing to the scammer's request, the "money mule" will share bank details so cash can be deposited in their account and follow instructions to send it to another account, keeping some for themselves.

They will not know where the money is coming from or where it is going but it could be used to pay for drugs, child trafficking or even terrorism.

Even if people who do this are not aware the transferred money was obtained illegally, they could be prosecuted as they have played an important role in fraud and money laundering.

The Bolton News:

Here are signs police say people need to look out for:

• Cash or rewards in exchange for the use of your bank account.

• Social media posts promoting easy ways of making money.

• Job adverts that promise the chance to work from home, for high sums, little work and with no experience necessary.

Here is how you can protect yourself:

• No legitimate company will ever ask you to use your own bank account to transfer their money. Don’t accept any job offers that ask you to do this.

• Be especially wary of job offers from people or companies overseas as it will be harder for you to find out if they really are legitimate.

• Never give your financial details to someone you don’t know and trust.

Detective Sergeant Stacey Shannon, of Greater Manchester Police's Economic Crime Hub, said: “Fraudsters will often target the vulnerable, in the case of money muling, this is young people or students who are often in need of money.

“Often the money mule is unaware that the money they are transferring is illegally obtained, however they have played a key role in money laundering and can still be prosecuted as this money finances more serious and violent crime.

"That’s why it is so important for people to take their time to consider taking part in something that promises to earn them quick money – there’s no such thing as easy money.

“I would also urge parents to be mindful of the tell-tale signs that their children could be a money mule.

"It could be that they suddenly have extra cash; they’re buying expensive new clothes or top-of-the-range mobile phones and gadgets with very little explanation as to how they got the money.

"They may also become more secretive, withdrawn or appear stressed.

“If you think you or someone you know has been affected, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.”

Follow @gmpfraud on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest scam advice.

You can access police's services online at www.gmp.police.uk.

For emergencies only call 999, or 101 if it is a less urgent matter.

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