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"419" Scam – Advance Fee / Fake Lottery Scam

• About the 419 (Advance Fee) scam
• "Is that email a scam?" - Check it online here!
  
• Frequently asked Questions (419 FAQ)
• Phone numbers used by 419 scammers
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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.

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

Click here to report a problem with this page.

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

• The following phrases in this message should put you on alert:
  • "cheque " (Beware of any scheme that involves cashing checks or money orders and then wiring a portion of the funds somewhere - you'll be liable for the entire amount if the checks or money orders turn out to be fake, even after you have received and forwarded cash. If it's a lottery prize, remember that real lotteries do not pay large prizes by check. They wire the money directly to your bank account and you do not pay for that. Many scammers promise a large check only in order to then demand payment of courier fees for a fake courier service. )
• This email message is a 419 scam. Please see our 419 FAQ for more details on such scams.
  

Fraud email example:

From: BARRY WOODS <gcs_customercareonline@yahoo.co.uk>
Date: Fri, 6 Jul 2007 20:44:55 +0100 (BST)
Subject: URGENT. YOUR WINNING IS REAL


Dear Frau Nagel

Regards to your email, i quite understand your fears and worries regards your winnings because you sent some money to someone and now you have not heard anything from her. I just want you to know that your winnings is for real and would be dispatched to you as soon as possible. I understand the reason why you are a little bit distrustful of me but i just have to tell you that your winning cheque is right here on my table waiting to be dispatched to you as soon as you choose an option and pay the courier charges. I would advice you to believe me because i know your winnings is real. I await your response.

Regards,
Mr Barry White


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Anti-fraud resources:

• What can you do when you receive 419 spam