Money mule

A money mule, sometimes called a "smurfer", is a person who transfers money acquired illegally, such as by theft or fraud. Money mules transfer funds in person, through a courier service, or electronically, on behalf of others. Typically, the mule is paid for services with a small part of the money transferred. Money mules are often recruited on-line under the guise of legitimate employment, not aware that the money they are transferring is the product of crime. Similar techniques are used to transfer merchandise illegally.