Is a remote bookkeeper job that asks me to handle client funds a scam?
If a bookkeeping job requires you to receive money into your personal account and forward it on, you are being recruited as a money mule — which is a criminal offence even if you did not know the funds were stolen.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Money-mule recruitment targeting people looking for bookkeeper, accounts-assistant, or finance-admin roles is common. The job description mentions handling or processing payments as part of the role. Once hired, you receive transfers into your personal account and are told to send them onward, keeping a commission. The incoming funds are almost always proceeds of fraud or money laundering. You are acting as a conduit. Even if you are unaware of the criminal origin, knowingly forwarding funds you did not earn can constitute a criminal offence. Banks detect these patterns and may close your accounts, apply a fraud marker to your credit file, or refer your activity to law enforcement.
Common red flags
- Job description involves receiving money into your personal bank account
- You are instructed to forward funds and keep a commission percentage
- Company cannot be verified and does not have a registered business address
- Employer says the arrangement is normal for remote finance roles
What to do now
- Do not accept or forward any funds as instructed
- Stop communication with the employer
- Contact your bank if you already received or sent any money
- Report the offer to your national fraud or financial intelligence service
Frequently asked questions
Could I be prosecuted even if I was tricked?
Potentially. Laws vary by jurisdiction, but knowingly forwarding funds is the key legal question. Reporting to authorities and ceasing the activity immediately is the safest response.