Bank of Ireland UK is urging families to discuss the risks of money mule scams with children and teenagers, warning of serious long-term consequences for those drawn into criminal schemes.

The appeal comes amid rising attempts by fraudsters to recruit young people — including those as young as 14 — via social media and messaging apps. According to the National Crime Agency, around six in ten money mules are under 30, with most recruited between 17 and 24.

Criminals typically entice young people with offers of quick cash in return for letting illicit funds pass through their bank accounts, moving money on to other accounts, or withdrawing cash to hand over to third parties.

This activity is far from harmless. Money muling helps launder the proceeds of serious organised crime, including fraud, human trafficking and drug trafficking. Individuals caught up in it can face criminal prosecution, have their bank accounts frozen or closed, and struggle to access future financial services such as loans or mortgages.

Allison Ewing, Manager, Fraud Awareness & Education, Bank of Ireland UK, said: "We're encouraging families to have open conversations about the risks of money mule scams. Criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they target young people, often presenting what appears to be an easy way to make money with little effort or risk. "The reality is very different. Becoming a money mule can have serious long-term consequences, affecting access to banking services, future employment opportunities and even resulting in criminal prosecution.

"For anyone who has allowed their account to be used and didn't realise the potential impact,  contact your bank as soon as possible. Coming forward early can make a real difference, and banks are there to help and support customers who may have been targeted by criminals."

To help start the conversation at home, Bank of Ireland advises parents to ensure young people know to:

- Be wary of adverts that look genuine but promise easy money if they use their bank account.

- Never allow anyone else to use their bank account.

- Never let their account be used to move money to other accounts.

- Contact their bank immediately if they think they have been caught up in a money mule scam, as swift action can help stop the fraud.

Through its Fraud Awareness and Education programme, Bank of Ireland works with schools, community groups and customers across Northern Ireland and the UK to help people recognise and avoid fraud and financial crime.

Further guidance on staying safe from fraud is available at: www.bankofirelanduk.com/help-and-support/security-and-fraud/

More on money muling from the National Crime Agency: www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/fraud-and-economic-crime/money-muling