Money laundry: § 261 StGB

After our client allegedly received money from the account of a third party and forwarded it to another person some time ago, he was suspected of negligent money laundering according to § 261 paragraph 6 of the German Criminal Code (StGB).

We prepared a detailed statement and thoroughly explained why there were no indications of a connection to any prior offenses.

After a thorough examination of the situation and all available evidence, the public prosecutor decided not to pursue the case further and to dismiss it.

Our client can thus breathe a sigh of relief and return to his daily activities undisturbed. We thank all parties involved for their support and are relieved by this positive outcome.

How does one actually become a so-called "Money Mule"?
In the digitalized world, it is easy to unwittingly get involved in illegal activities. One of the most common traps is the role of a money mule. Criminals often lure individuals with attractive job offers that promise easy money and flexible working hours. These offers appear on online job boards, social media, or via email and sound legitimate, but they are not.

Fake emails, supposedly from trusted sources, often ask for bank details or personal information. This information is then misused to open accounts or conduct transactions. Another trick is online dating fraud, where scammers build emotional bonds to gain trust and then ask the victim to transfer money. After some time, they request the victim to forward money from their account to someone else, claiming they cannot do it themselves for various reasons.

Fake classified ads that require advance payments or refunds through bank accounts are also a common trap. The money flowing through these transactions often comes from illegal sources.

To protect yourself, you should view unrealistic promises in job offers with skepticism and carefully verify the legitimacy of offers and companies. Never share your bank details or passwords with unknown persons or companies, and be wary of emails or messages from unknown senders, especially if they request personal information.