Dream job from home? Beware of money laundering trap!

Summary

Why is this warning issued?

This warning has been included because it is based on a report from Watchlist Internet. It is intended to protect other users from this fraud scheme. The classified risk is elevated.

How the scam works

• Criminals contact job seekers unsolicited via message with a supposed employment confirmation.
• The supposed job interview only takes place online via chat; there is no personal contact.
• The perpetrators assign oddly-sounding tasks, such as opening a bank account for 'testing' or rating apps and products.
• In the next step, the victims are supposed to open real bank accounts in their own name – supposedly for practice purposes, without telling the bank the true background.
• The criminals then use these real accounts for money laundering; the victims are held liable under their name.
• In a second variant of the scheme, supposed processing fees are demanded before salary payment, which the perpetrators keep.

How to recognise it

• You are hired immediately without a real application process.
• The initial interview takes place only digitally; you never see a real person.
• Communication takes place exclusively via chat services such as WhatsApp or Telegram.
• Tasks sound unusual, for example 'testing' bank accounts or rating apps.
• A high salary is promised for very little effort.
• The company is hardly findable on the internet – even a professional website does not protect against fraud.
• Reputable employers never require a payment before you receive your salary.
• Prize without participation or 'free' offer with data request

How to protect yourself

• Break off contact immediately as soon as tasks such as 'testing an account' or unclear processes appear.
• File a report with the police immediately if you have already opened an account or shared data.
• Inform your bank about the incident so that your account can be protected.
• Preserve evidence: save chat histories, messages, payment requests and links as screenshots or files.
• Research the company on the internet beforehand – if independent information is missing, keep your distance.
• If in doubt, contact your local consumer advice center for free advice.

What you should never do

• Do not pay any processing fees or other upfront costs to an unknown employer.
• Do not open a bank account in your name if you are being instructed to do so via chat by strangers.
• Do not only mention 'test purposes' to the bank if you are actually opening a real account on behalf of a third party – it is not a practice account.
• Do not ignore the incident if you have already shared data or money – every hour counts for police and bank.
• Do not let yourself be pressured by quick hiring promises and high pay.

Frequently asked questions

Comments

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Original source

Update history

• 06/08/2026Description updated
• 04/08/2026Warning added from an official source