Criminal syndicates are targeting international students leaving Australia, offering quick cash for their bank accounts and identity documents in schemes that could tie them to major money-laundering crimes, according to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
Students preparing to return home are being approached with offers of a few hundred dollars upfront — plus commission — to hand over access to their bank accounts.
Others are being asked to sell passports, driver's licences and other ID documents.
Police warn these deals are illegal, dangerous and can leave students directly linked to scam networks targeting Australians.
Students indelibly linked to crime
The AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre said students are being offered $200 to $500 for access to their Australian bank accounts, with a 10 per cent commission on the money criminals launder through them.
Identity documents that are bought are often used to open new accounts tied to victims' names.
AFP detective superintendent Marie Andersson said criminals use these accounts to impersonate real people or scam the life savings of vulnerable Australians, meaning students could find themselves indelibly linked to crime networks.
"What might look like a harmless favour, or an easy money earner, can result in criminal charges, visa cancellations, and permanent bans from returning to Australia," she said.
"We are seeing criminal networks overseas launder millions through bank accounts belonging to young people, and as a result, they too could be charged with offences like money laundering.
"When students sell their details, they're not only risking prosecution; they're also enabling real harm to innocent people."
Financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC has warned international students are considered a high-risk group for recruitment, noting criminal networks deliberately target those about to leave Australia or those seeking a means to earn money while living in Australia.
Their accounts allow criminal networks to move larger volumes of money with fewer checks by bypassing daily limits, expanding the number of controlled accounts, and exploiting existing KYC-verified profiles to mask laundering activities, according to the June 2024 financial crime guide.
Criminals also lure students into becoming money mules through fraudulent job offers, romance scams and fake online advertisements, according to the Australian Banking Association.
Money laundering carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment in Australia.
Campaign urges students to protect their identity
The AFP is urging international students to understand the seriousness of selling or sharing their identity.
Andersson said many students don't realise they are being exploited.
"But once caught, it's the student who faces the consequences," Andersson said.
"Before leaving Australia, we urge students to close their local bank accounts, secure their digital and personal identity, and never sell or share their details with anyone.
"Your identity isn't just paperwork — it's your responsibility.
"Leaving the country doesn't erase your digital footprint. Your bank accounts, name and identity are traceable by police around the world, and you'll still be connected to any crimes to which you are tied or responsible."
Anyone offered money for their accounts or information is urged to report it to ReportCyber.gov.au.
To protect themselves from falling victim, the AFP advises students to follow three simple rules:
1. Don't share banking and personal details with anyone you don't know or trust.
2. If someone asks to use or 'borrow' your bank account, say no.
3. If you suspect something is not right, reject the offer.
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