Money Mule Liability in Investment Fraud: Who Is Responsible?

In investment fraud the money often moves not through the accounts of the main perpetrator but through those of "intermediaries", "couriers" or people who allow their accounts to be used. The legal position of these people is a frequently asked question. The subject is covered below for information purposes.

⚖️ The Legal Position

Making one's account available to someone else or acting as an intermediary in moving fraud proceeds may, depending on the case and the person's knowledge, be assessed as participation in fraudTR or as offences such as money laundering.

🔍 The 'I Did Not Know' Defence

Whether the person acted knowingly or unknowingly, and whether intent existed, is at the centre of the assessment. Renting out an account for the promise of 'easy money' carries serious risks.

🛡️ Assessment

It is important that the process is assessed legally for both the victim and the person in the intermediary position.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions