I have been asked to open an account for a friend who is out of the country because while working out of the country his credit card was stolen. He reported it lost and now he is telling me they have blocked his checking account because his credit card was attached to his checking account. To me this sounds funny. I have not done as he has asked for I do not feel comfortable with this request. What should I do? I have a credit card through my bank but it is not attached to my checking account. He says the bank in the country he is in will not transfer the funds due to this block. Please advise.

Do not do it... flat out tell them you can't. And don't let them try and persuade you.

Anyone that tries to talk you into moving their money for them is very likely trying to do something illegal and keep their own name as far from it as possible and guess who is the first one to get in trouble... yes... you are the one

If your name is associated with that account and any illegal activity takes place you are held as liable as they are, and actually more so because YOU will be within their jurisdiction... and the other party wouldn't be.

Friends try and scam friends all the time... even if you did know them well before.

Did you know this person online... or in person before... how long did you know them... how much do you know about them...

I'm betting you don't know them very well (only casual friends) or you knew them only online and in either case its almost certain it's a scam that will you will be held responsible for, legally and financially.