Sending money across borders just got way more complicated.
You’d think in 2025, moving money internationally would be as simple as sending a text message. But here’s the reality check — consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, which represents a massive 25% increase over the previous year.
The truth is international money transfers are growing like crazy. Immigrants around the world sent approximately $860 billion in remittances back to their home countries in 2023 alone. Recent changes in ISA rates have encouraged more people to consider saving through tax-free accounts to maximize their returns.
But with great money comes great responsibility…
And unfortunately, great risk too.
Whether you need to send money to the Philippines for family support or handle business payments anywhere else around the globe, understanding how to protect yourself from scams and choose the right service could save you thousands.
Want to know how to transfer money internationally without getting burned? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about safe international money transfers in 2025.
What you’ll discover:
- Why International Money Transfer Safety Matters More Than Ever
- The Hidden Costs That Are Draining Your Transfers
- Red Flags That Scream “Don’t Send Your Money Here”
- How To Pick The Right Transfer Service Every Time
- Advanced Security Steps That Actually Work
Why International Money Transfer Safety Matters More Than Ever
The international money transfer landscape has become a battlefield between legitimate services and sophisticated scammers.
79% of organizations were victims of payments fraud attacks in 2024. If businesses with entire security teams are getting hit, imagine what individual consumers are facing.
Modern fraud tactics are incredibly sophisticated. Criminals aren’t just random guys in basements anymore. They’re organized operations that study your habits, mimic trusted brands, and exploit every weakness in the system.
The most dangerous part? Many people don’t realize they’ve been scammed until it’s too late. Unlike credit card fraud, international money transfer fraud often involves you willingly sending money to criminals who’ve convinced you they’re legitimate.
And once that money crosses borders? Good luck getting it back.
The Hidden Costs That Are Draining Your Transfers
Think you’re getting a good deal on that “zero fee” international transfer?
Think again.
Most people focus only on upfront fees, but that’s exactly what money transfer companies want. The real money is made in hidden costs that can easily double or triple what you actually pay.
Here’s where they get you:
Exchange Rate Markups: This is the big one. The average cost to make a $200 remittance transfer with a bank was 13.64%, compared to just 2.84% with mobile money operators. That’s a massive difference that comes primarily from exchange rate markups.
Processing Delays: Some services hold your money for days or weeks, earning interest on your cash while claiming “processing delays.”
Receiving Fees: Your recipient might get hit with unexpected charges on their end, reducing the amount they actually receive.
Weekend Surcharges: Many services add extra fees for transfers initiated on weekends or holidays.
The worst part? These costs add up fast. A transfer that looks like it costs $5 might actually cost you $50 or more when you factor in all the hidden fees and poor exchange rates.
But here’s the good news…
Once you know what to look for, you can easily spot and avoid these hidden costs. The key is understanding exactly how each service makes money and comparing the total cost, not just the advertised fee.
Red Flags That Scream “Don’t Send Your Money Here”
Want to know how to spot a money transfer scam from a mile away?
These red flags are your early warning system:
Pressure Tactics: Legitimate services never rush you. If someone pressures you to “send money now,” it’s almost certainly a scam.
Requests For Banking Information: Real money transfer services don’t need your online banking passwords or PIN numbers. Ever.
Unusually High Returns: If someone promises returns that seem too good to be true, they probably are. One in every 120 online transactions worldwide is suspected to be fraudulent.
Poor Website Security: Check for “https://” in the URL and security certificates. No basic security? Huge red flag.
No Physical Address: Legitimate companies have real offices and clear contact information.
Requests to Use Your Bank Account: This is a classic money mule scam. Never let someone else use your account.
Trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t ignore that feeling. Those few minutes verifying legitimacy could save you thousands.
How To Pick The Right Transfer Service Every Time
Choosing the right international money transfer service isn’t just about finding the cheapest option…
It’s about finding the service that gives you the best combination of cost, speed, security, and reliability.
Here’s exactly how to evaluate any money transfer service:
Check Regulatory Compliance: Make sure the service is properly licensed in both sending and receiving countries. In the US, look for FinCEN registration.
Compare Total Costs: Don’t just look at fees. Calculate the total cost including exchange rate markups. Many services offer calculators showing exactly how much your recipient will receive.
Read Recent Reviews: Check reviews from the last 6 months on multiple platforms. Pay attention to customer service and problem resolution.
Verify Security Measures: Look for encryption, two-factor authentication, and clear explanations of how they protect your money.
Check Coverage: Make sure the service operates in your recipient’s location with convenient pickup options.
The best service depends on your specific situation. Someone sending $50 monthly to family has different needs than someone making a $10,000 business payment.
Advanced Security Steps That Actually Work
Ready to take your international money transfer security to the next level?
Use Two-Factor Authentication: Always enable 2FA on your accounts. This blocks most unauthorized access attempts.
Create Transfer Alerts: Set up alerts for every transaction. You’ll know immediately if someone tries to send money from your account.
Verify Recipients Independently: Before sending money, call your recipient using a number you already have. Confirm they actually requested the transfer.
Use Secure Networks: Never initiate transfers on public WiFi. Wait until you’re on a secure, private network.
Monitor Exchange Rates: Know the real exchange rate before you transfer. This helps you spot services trying to cheat you.
These steps take a few extra minutes but could save you thousands of dollars.
Making It All Work Together
International money transfers don’t have to be scary or expensive.
With consumers losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024 alone, being careful isn’t paranoid — it’s smart. The key is finding the right balance between security, cost, and convenience for your specific needs.
Remember, 79% of organizations faced payment fraud attempts in 2024. If big companies with security teams are struggling, individual consumers need to be even more careful.
Start with the basics: choose a regulated, well-reviewed money transfer service that offers transparent pricing. Then add security steps that make sense for your situation. Whether you’re sending regular support to family or making occasional business payments, the right approach will save you money and give you peace of mind.
The international money transfer market is only going to get bigger, but so are the risks. Stay informed, stay alert, and your money will reach its destination safely.
Aisha Noreen is an owner of a small business with more than 9 years of experience in the marketing industry. With the wisdom of an old soul, she always seeks innovation and mind-blowing ROI techniques. Her unique approach helped many small businesses thrive and she can surprise you in many ways as well. Believe it or not, her energy, passion, and creativity are contagious enough to transform your business and take it to another level.