Keep Your Financial Accounts Safe

From bank accounts and payment apps to international money transfer services, financial accounts make everyday life easier.

They help us pay, send and receive money wherever we are. And because they’re connected to your money and personal information, keeping them safe matters too.

Here are a few simple things to remember.

Your account is yours

Whether it’s a bank account, mobile payment app, e-wallet or money transfer account such as Fukupochi, your account should stay with you.

Never sell, lend or give your account to someone else, even if you no longer use it.
And keep your login details to yourself too. Passwords, verification codes and other security information should never be shared with anyone.

Selling, lending or transferring accounts is not OK

An account might feel like something you can simply hand over when you no longer need it. But financial and payment accounts are different.

In Japan, selling, lending or transferring certain accounts, including accounts for money transfer services and payment apps, can be a crime.

This applies to services you may use every day, such as mobile payment apps and international money transfer apps or websites.

It doesn’t matter if someone offers to pay for your account, asks to borrow it for a short time, or tells you they need it for someone else.

Don’t sell it. Don’t lend it. Don’t hand it over.

Why does it matter?

Once someone else has your account, you may not know what happens next.

Accounts obtained from other people can be used for scams, fraudulent transactions or moving money connected to criminal activity. Something that starts with simply handing over an unused account can lead to much more serious consequences.

So keep it simple: your account, your access.

A few good habits go a long way

Use strong, unique passwords for your financial accounts and keep your login information private.

Never share verification codes with anyone, even when someone says they need them to help you.

Be cautious of unexpected messages offering to buy your account or asking to borrow it.

And if something doesn’t look right, don’t respond or share any information. Contact your bank, payment service or money transfer provider directly instead.

Want to know more?

The Japan Payment Service Association has put together useful information about selling, lending and transferring accounts, including which types of accounts are covered, the risks involved and what to do if you have already handed over an account.

Learn more from the Japan Payment Service Association:
「アカウント売買は犯罪です！」 (Account Buying and Selling Is a Crime)
https://www.s-kessai.jp/keihatsu/sellingaccount/

Here when you need us

If you receive a suspicious request involving your Fukupochi account, or notice something you don’t recognise, please get in touch with us as soon as possible.
We’re here to help keep your account, your money and your transfers safe.

Safe. Secure. Reliable.

Send money internationally with Fukupochi, with confidence every step of the way.