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A money mule is someone whose card scammers use to move stolen money. Often they don't even realise they're part of a crime. But the card owner is the one held responsible.

3 minutes read · checked 29.10.2026

How they recruit

  • "Easy side job". Receive a transfer on your card, withdraw cash or send it on, and keep a percentage.
  • "Sell or rent out your card". They offer money for your card, your bank app login, or for opening a card in your name.
  • "Mistaken transfer". Money lands on your card, and then the "sender" asks you to return it to a different card.

What's at stake

  • The bank blocks cards and accounts, and the money may be returned to victims at your expense.
  • You may be listed in bank databases as a suspicious customer, which causes problems with loans and cards.
  • Taking part in schemes with stolen money can lead to criminal liability.

Safety rules

  • Never hand over your card, its details, an SMS code or access to your bank app.
  • Don't agree to run someone else's money through your card, whether for a percentage or as a favour.
  • If an unexplained transfer arrives, don't return it yourself. Call the bank, and it will return the money to the sender officially.

If you've already been drawn in

Stop all transactions, call your bank on the number on the back of your card and contact the police (102). The sooner you do this, the better for you.

How to check an MFI Check an organisation

Sources: Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This isn't financial or legal advice: confirm terms and rules with the bank and on official websites.