What is a mule account?

A mule account is a bank account that scammers use to receive and move victims' money. It usually belongs to someone else who has rented, sold or lent their account to the scammers.

Is renting out my bank account illegal?

Yes. Allowing your bank account to be used to receive the proceeds of fraud is a criminal offence in Malaysia. The account holder can be investigated and prosecuted, even without being directly involved in the scam itself.

My account was frozen for being linked to a scam. What should I do?

Contact your bank to find out why and cooperate with the police. Prepare evidence of your transactions and conversations. If you face charges, get advice from a lawyer. This site does not give legal advice.

Guide

Mule accounts: the risk of renting out your bank account

A mule account is a bank account belonging to someone else that scammers use to receive and move victims' money. Many owners rent or sell their accounts for a small fee. This is a criminal offence under Malaysian law, and the account holder can be prosecuted, have the account frozen, and have their details recorded in police databases.

Check a bank account / phone →

Already transferred money? Call 997 (NSRC) now — 24 hours. How to report a scam →

How people end up running mule accounts

Being offered cash to 'rent out' a bank account or ATM card.
Being asked to open a new account and hand over the online banking details.
Job offers that ask you to receive money and transfer it on.
An online friend or romantic partner asking you to 'receive money' for them.

Risks to the account holder

You can be investigated and charged in court even if you say you did not know the money came from fraud.
Your bank account can be frozen and you may struggle to open a new one.
Your account and phone numbers can be listed in SemakMule.
You may be held responsible for victims' losses.

How to protect yourself

Never hand over your ATM card, username, password or banking OTP to anyone. Do not receive and move money for people you do not know, even if you are promised commission.

If you have ever handed over an account, contact your bank immediately to cut off access and make a police report.

Check an account before transferring

Before paying a seller or someone you do not know, check the account number in SemakMule. Accounts with police reports should be avoided. Accounts with no record are not necessarily safe either, because new mule accounts are always being used.

Frequently asked questions

What is a mule account?: A mule account is a bank account that scammers use to receive and move victims' money. It usually belongs to someone else who has rented, sold or lent their account to the scammers.
Is renting out my bank account illegal?: Yes. Allowing your bank account to be used to receive the proceeds of fraud is a criminal offence in Malaysia. The account holder can be investigated and prosecuted, even without being directly involved in the scam itself.
My account was frozen for being linked to a scam. What should I do?: Contact your bank to find out why and cooperate with the police. Prepare evidence of your transactions and conversations. If you face charges, get advice from a lawyer. This site does not give legal advice.

Short guides to the scam tactics common in Malaysia, how to check bank accounts, phone numbers and licences, and what to do right away if you have been hit.