Children who are exploited may be told, tricked or forced to carry and handle cash from thefts, drug deals or other illicit means.
They may visit bank branches to deposit the cash into their abuser’s account. Or, they may be made to launder money or transfer it through their own bank account.
Things to spot
In branch
Have you noticed a child or young person that is:
- anxious, frightened or angry
- showing signs of neglect or other behaviours that make you worried about them
- behaving aggressively with you or other bank staff
- visiting a branch far from the account holder's address
- paying in a large quantity of cash
- being instructed or controlled by another person or being observed by someone at a distance
On a child's bank account
Have you noticed:
- concerning activity
- small amounts being paid frequently
- more activity than you would expect to see on a child's account
- cash deposits or transfers from unknown sources
- a lot of transport or accommodation transactions on the account