In the modern digital era, it’s increasingly becoming a norm for innocent people to get caught up in financial fraud investigations — just because suspicious funds were traced to their bank accounts. If you ever get caught up in such a scenario, knowing what to do is important. Below is a guide to assist you through the process:

1. You Don’t Have to Be the Fraudster to Be in Trouble

It is possible to get swept up in a fraud case even if you are not the main suspect. If certain unauthorized funds have been traced to your bank account, then you are considered a secondary beneficiary, and that puts you on the case.

2. Never Go to the Bank Alone

If your account has been frozen or flagged as a result of a court order or investigation, do not go to the bank alone. Instead, hire a lawyer who can assist in getting the required information through legal means. Your lawyer or account officer can assist in retrieving the court order or, at least, get the suit number for the case.

3. Obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Court Order

Your lawyer may obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court order and the motion or application used to obtain it after you have the suit number. This will notify you of the reason for the action against your account and guide your next moves.

4. Prepare to Visit Law Enforcement

Your lawyer will likely be required to visit the investigating body—police or EFCC—with you. Be ready to apply for administrative bail to pre-empt disappointments or chances of detention.

5. Get and Print All Transaction Records

Before going to any law enforcement agency, take a printout of your bank statements and evidence of all transactions. These statements will help prove that you are in no way related to any type of fraudulent act and that the funds deposited in your account were earned legally.

6. A Good Explanation Can Lead to the removal of the Restriction place on the account

If you provide a sound reason for the suspicious funds, the EFCC or police may instruct the bank to lift the lien on your account. Otherwise, your account can be frozen.

7. Take Legal Action if the Lien Persists

If you have delivered strong evidence and the authorities still deny having released your account, you can sue the bank as well as the investigative agency for illegal restraint and loss damages incurred.

8. No Explanation? Be Prepared to Lose the Money

If you cannot account for where the money came from, you will have little chance of recovering your account and may be asked to surrender the money to the actual victim of the scam.

9. Always Call Your Lawyer First

Do not go alone to the bank, police, or EFCC. Your best protection in this situation is your lawyer and they will protect your rights at each turn.

10. Stay Informed and Stay Safe

It might seem frightening to undergo a financial investigation, but with expert legal guidance, you can defend your reputation and retrieve your property. Always take advice from your lawyer before acting.