Don't be a scam mule

What is a scam mule?

A scam mule is a person who knowingly or unknowingly helps scammers facilitate their crimes. Scammers recruit individuals to perform seemingly simple tasks in exchange for money such as: 

• Allowing others to use your bank account to receive or transfer money. 

• Selling or handing over your SIM card. 

• Sharing access to your Singpass account. 

Why do scammers exploit scam mules? 

By using scam mules, scammers can: 

• Receive and transfer illegal proceeds quickly through multiple bank accounts, making it difficult for authorities to trace and recover the funds. 

• Make scams appear more credible by using local bank accounts and phone lines, which can increase scammers’ chances of deceiving victims.

How does it happen? 

How scammers approach you 
Scammers may approach you through social media, messaging apps, online advertisements, job portals, or even people you know. They often pose as employers, business owners, online acquaintances or individuals seeking help. 

How they convince you 
Scammers tempt you with offers that sound easy and rewarding. They may promise quick cash, flexible work or commissions for completing simple tasks. 

How they exploit your accounts 

Scammers may use your SIM card to contact victims or register accounts used in scam operations to hurt innocent people.

Your bank account may be used to receive and move stolen money from scam victims, helping scammers hide their tracks and avoid being caught.

Your Singpass account may be used to set up shell companies that scammers use for illegal activities. 

By using accounts registered in your name, scammers make it more difficult for authorities to trace the real perpetrators, while leaving you at risk of investigation and prosecution. 

What are the legal consequences?

Scam mules may be held criminally liable if their Singpass, bank accounts or SIM cards are used by others for criminal activities. You may face:

Fines that can be up to S$500,000

Jail terms that can be up to 10 years

Liable for caning of up to 12 strokes

Find out more about the offences and punishments here.