The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is warning departing international students to not sell their bank accounts and ID to crooks looking to scam and launder money in Australia.
The AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre (JPC3) has warned that criminal syndicates are targeting foreign students preparing to head home from studying in Australia by offering between $200-$500 for the use of their Australian bank accounts, with potential for a commission – typically about 10 per cent – on funds received in them.
Identity documents such as passports, driver’s licences or government-issued identification are also in high demand, with criminals buying them to open bank accounts in the victims’ names.
AFP Detective Superintendent Marie Andersson said criminals commonly used their access to bank accounts and ID documents to impersonate real people or scam the life savings of vulnerable Australians, including retirees, migrants and even other students.
She urged international students not to sell or hand over their accounts or ID documents to anyone – especially strangers who contacted them via social media or messaging platforms, or in-person.
“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,” Det-Supt Andersson 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.”
The AFP’s warning forms part of a new cybercrime awareness campaign, ‘Your Name. Your Responsibility’, which is designed to educate and empower international students to understand the serious legal and personal risks of selling their accounts to criminals.
Det-Supt Andersson said the campaign reminded students their identity wasn’t just a document, it was also their reputation and their future.
“Students often don’t realise they’re being exploited by organised criminals who profit from their actions. But once caught, it’s the student who faces the consequences,” Det-Supt 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 personal information should report it immediately to: ReportCyber.gov.au.
