Sun, Dec 21, 2014

Individuals have been approached by criminals in person, or through social media, offering payment for use of their bank account.

Once the account details have been handed over the offenders arrange for large sums of money to be paid into the account – which is then either transferred onto other accounts or withdrawn in cash.

Those targeted are often not paid, or are given significantly less money than they were promised.

In some cases the account holder’s own money is withdrawn, or transferred, along with the criminal’s funds – leaving them out of pocket.

In addition to any financial losses allowing your account to be used could lead to a criminal conviction.

Fellow college students have been approached across the county, as well as though studying at the University of Hertfordshire.

Det Insp Yvonne Lewis from the Cyber and Financial Investigations Unit said: “We have received reports of students in Hitchin and Hatfield being targeted by criminals. The targeted person is told that as this is an inside job and all they need to do, if challenged, is say that they don’t know anything about it and they won’t get into trouble and that the bank are the only people who lose money. This is not the case.

“Anyone participating in money laundering is breaking the law and could face serious consequences. You are also likely to lose out financially and potentially be aiding serious organised crime. Do not agree to receive money into your account from people you do not know, if you are approached contact the police and provide details.”