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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: "STEVE MARTINS" <mstevemartins506@mail2world.com>
Date: Thu, 17 Mar 2005 18:12:02
Subject: Good day to you.


I have a profiling amount of 56 Million United States Dollars secured in an
offshore private bank. I am seeking your assistance in securing these
funds into a safe account for future investment purposes but requiring
maximum confidentiality. This is bourne out of the fact that I am still in
active
service in the Ministry here in Scotland-UK.

Upon your positive response to my proposal, I will provide you with the
following information:

* How I will introduce you/yourcompany to the holding bank and make
you the beneficiary of the money.

* Who I am and why I have decided to sought for your assistance.

* What percentage of the money I am willing to give you for your
assistance.

Kindly respond with your private phone and fax numbers for easier and
faster communication.

Steve.

Anti-fraud resources: