HSBC warns banking customers 'harmless request' can land them 14 years in prison

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

High street banking giant HSBC has issued a warning to customers about a worrying trend among fraudsters and other criminals, where innocent people are sent a "harmless request" that puts cash in their bank account, but could land them with up to 14 years in prison.

The victims of these schemes are known as "money mules", as they unwittingly help to launder the proceeds of crime. The National Crime Agency has reported a rise in these money mule schemes on social media, with people being targetted on Instagram and Snapchat by criminals promising to help them make some easy money.

While it might seem a quick way to get cash without getting off the sofa, it can land you with a criminal record and up to 14 years in prison.

HSBC warned that scammers "often target people facing financial difficulties" or those looking for a quick way to make some cash, and are unlikely to appear criminal at first.