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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: MATTHEW WRIGHT <matt_wright247@yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2007 04:42:18 -0800 (PST)
Subject: From Fidelity Investments


Dear Friend,

I am writting to inform you that i have waited till date without any response from you, i will like to hear from you in regards to my last email to you so that i will be able to start making further documntation in your name for the release of this funds. I want you to know that we have wasted a lot of time in this without getting through with something, kindly get back to me on the confirmation of the reciept of this email so that i will start know my arrangement in regards furging ahead with this transaction.

Waiting to hear from you soonest.

Sincerely,
Mr.Matthew Wright.


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