FID targets young Jamaicans in new campaign against money mule scams

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Financial Investigations Division (FID) is stepping up efforts to protect young Jamaicans from being recruited into financial crimes, with a 12-week public education campaign set to begin on November 3, 2026. The Money Mule Public Education Campaign will target tertiary students and young professionals, helping them identify recruitment tactics, understand the potential legal consequences and know where to seek assistance. In a press release on Thursday, the FID explained that money mules are individuals whose bank accounts, mobile wallets or cards are used to receive and transfer funds obtained through criminal activity. While some knowingly participate in these schemes, others are unaware that they are facilitating financial crimes. FID Chief Technical Director Dennis Chung warned that young people may be drawn into these arrangements under the guise of helping a friend, accepting a job opportunity or earning quick cash. “Money mule recruitment depends on ordinary people who do not realise what they are being asked to do. A request to receive money, lend an account or pass funds along can seem like a small favour or a quick way to earn, but it can place a young person’s name and future at the centre of a criminal investigation,” Chung said. “Students and young professionals are active online and are often approached, so that is where this campaign begins,” he added. The FID cautioned that allowing a bank account or other financial facility to be used to move funds linked to criminal activity could expose individuals to investigation and prosecution. “Our message is simple. Ask questions, protect your account details and know the red flags. If you have already shared your account, act early: speak to your bank and contact the FID. The FID will take lawful enforcement action where appropriate, but we would much rather help you avoid being drawn in at all. We also invite universities, employers, parents and community groups to help us share these messages,” he said. The FID is encouraging Jamaicans to be on the lookout for five common warning signs of money mule recruitment: — An offer of money, a commission or a reward for receiving funds in your bank account, mobile wallet or card; — A request to send money on to another person or account, to withdraw it or to convert it to digital currency; — A “job” with no interview, no written contract, or an employer you cannot verify; — Pressure to act quickly or to keep the arrangement secret; or — A request to share your online banking login, PIN or one-time password. The FID is urging individuals who suspect they have been recruited into a money mule scheme to stop receiving or sending money for the person who contacted them, contact their bank and follow its instructions, secure their online banking access, keep their messages and transaction records, and report the matter to the FID. Members of the public who suspect money mule activity or receive suspicious financial offers may contact the FID at 876-928-5141, email contact@fid.gov.jm, or visit fid.gov.jm. The agency is also reminding Jamaicans not to post their banking information publicly or share sensitive account details through social media messages.