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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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Some comments by the Scam-O-Matic about the following email:

Fraud email example:

From: "CHIEF DEMBA GAYE" <danmusa990@yahoo.co.uk> (may be fake)
Date: Fri, 21 Apr 2006 21:05:47 +0000
Subject: I NEED YOUR HELP.

HELLO Sir/
I am Mr. Dan Musa, I am a Terminal Supervisory Chair-man of a Sea Port in my country. I have worked for 15years but as it is now I want to apply for my resignation letter for further investment with my wealth overseas. I am interested in investment.
The reason for this correspondence is to seek your advise on areas of business investment in your country where we can combinely invest/utilize my money on for profitable gains. The amount involved is Two Million Dollars {US$2M.} only and I need your advice in time so that I can make necessary arrangements to move/transfer the money to you before my arrival in your country for further discussions and investments.
Tell me about yourself, business and family. Send me your full names, your home and office addresses, your picture, tel and fax numbers for easy communication. Please acknowledge the receipt of this offer and indicate your willingness and readiness to assist me by responding urgently. Thank you for your understanding.
I await your urgent response.
Best regards,
Mr. Dan Musa


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