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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: "edwardwill1@cantv.net" <edwardwill1@cantv.net>
Date: Sat, 15 Aug 2009 11:43:58 -0430
Subject: From Edward Williams

From Edward Williams
Dear Sir
It's my pleasure to acquaint you with this proposal for a financial and business assistance in your country, I know my message will come to you as a surprise.

Don't worry I was totally convinced to write you in reference to the transfer of USD$11.5M to your account for onward investment (Hotel industries and estate building management) in your country, this fund was deposited in a prime bank in Abidjan, Cote D' Ivoire by my late  father.

All you need to do is to provide me with your private telephone and fax numbers for us to talk and as well provide me with your account details or you open a new bank account for the transfer of the fund to your country. please,if you are interested, reply me urgently .

Remain bless while expecting your prompt co-operation.
Best Regard.
Edward Williams

Anti-fraud resources: