Parents with primary school age children are being warned youngsters could be used as "money mules".

Kent Police sent a letter out to parents and carers at Maidstone and Medway primary schools today warning young people are being targeted by criminals to keep their money.

Teenagers used as money mules have doubled in Kent

A money mule is someone who is paid to transfer stolen money through their own bank account on behalf of someone else.

Police say they need parents help to stop criminals targeting their children.

A letter seen by KentOnline reads: "Young people are increasingly being targeted to become money mules.

"They are approached online or in person, including through social media, at school, college or sports clubs.

"Sometimes people they know persuade them to take part, often because they are also acting as money mules.

"Mules will usually be unaware of where the money comes from – commonly fraud and scams – and that it can go on to fund crimes such as drug dealing and people trafficking."

Anyone caught laundering money for a criminal will have their bank account closed.

They will face problems getting student loans, mobile phone contracts and credit later in life. Some could even be arrested and face up to 14 years in prison.

Kent Police highlighted what parents should look out for:

"Tell-tale signs that someone might be involved could be them suddenly having extra cash, buying expensive new clothes or top-of-the-range mobile phones and gadgets with very little explanation as to how they got the money. They may also become more secretive, withdrawn or appear stressed.

"You and your child can learn more and get advice by visiting www.moneymules.co.uk together. If you are worried that someone close to you might be caught up in money muling, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"Please do not attempt to contact any individual you suspect of organising money muling."

Read more: All the latest news from Medway.