Never allow anyone to use your bank account.

That’s the advice from Gardaí after a Cork youngster was arrested in relation to possible ‘money mule’ offences in Co. Cork.

As part of an ongoing investigation into possible money laundering, Gardaí in Fermoy arrested a juvenile for being a suspected ‘money mule’ on May 30th, 2021.

“It is alleged that the juvenile allowed their bank account be used for fraudulent means where an invoice re-direct fraud had occurred and over €12,000 was transferred to this youths account.” Gardaí said in a statement.

The youth was detained at a Garda station in West Cork under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. They were later released without charge and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

During Fraud Week in March, the Gardaí described a money mule as someone who is the recipient and/or disburser of fraudulent or illegally obtained funds.

About 90% of money mule transactions are linked to cybercrime, with one ongoing investigation identifying 53 people who acted as money mules, transferring €1.5 million through their accounts. Of those arrested, 17 are juveniles and most have no prior interactions with Gardaí.

“Organised Criminal Gangs are targeting them in secondary schools, in colleges and via social media, including messaging apps.” the Gardaí warned.

“Parents and teachers need to know how serious this is and the ramifications for the children.”