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"419" Scam – Advance Fee / Fake Lottery Scam

The so-called "419" scam is a type of fraud dominated by criminals from Nigeria and other countries in Africa. Victims of the scam are promised a large amount of money, such as a lottery prize, inheritance, money sitting in some bank account, etc.

Victims never receive this non-existent fortune but are tricked into sending their money to the criminals, who remain anonymous. They hide their real identity and location by using fake names and fake postal addresses as well as communicating via anonymous free email accounts and mobile phones.

Keep in mind that scammers DO NOT use their real names when defrauding people.
The criminals either abuse names of real people or companies or invent names or addresses.
Any real people or companies mentioned below have NO CONNECTION to the scammers!

Read more about such scams here or in our 419 FAQ. Use the Scam-O-Matic to verify suspect emails.

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Fraud email example:

From: "Micheal" <mikesmith098@tiscali.co.uk>
Reply-To: mikesmith990@netscape.net
Date: Sat, 12 Mar 2005 17:26:28 +0100
Subject: VERY IMP0RTANT PLS

Sir,
I am Mr.Micheal Smith,an Executive Director of Projects , in a multinational
firm. I decided to forward to you this business proposal in anticipation
that you may be in position to assist/handle this business with us.

WE want you to assist us in receiving funds from a company we assisted
in their bid for a contract in our firm based on an earlier promise to us.
The company has therefore requested for information from us of who is to
receive the promised amount on our behalf and because we are not allowed
by company rules and regulation as in any other company to receive gratification
for service rendered officially or operate or own foreign accounts, hence
the need for your assistance .On our part, all modalities had been worked
out in ensuring a smooth transaction .All I want from you is your full name
and Address and your company name, you want the cheques to be issued on and
as soon as you indicate your Interest.The cheques will be issue in your
name,On accomplishment of this deal you will be entitled to 20% of the total
sum. If this proposal is accepted by you, kindly reach me immediately via
e-mail mikesmith990@netscape.net ;furnish me with your confidential telephone
numbers.
Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best regards
Mr Micheal Smith

___________________________________________________________

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