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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: <latin.thurs52@msn.com>
Reply-To: <irdi3@mail.kz>
Date: Thu, 2 Jun 2011 05:24:24 -0800
Subject: Require your partnership & co-operation for Investment

Sir,
 
I got your contact in my search for a reliable partner who can assist me facilitate a pending business transaction. After due considerations, I decided to contact you for cooperation.
 
You will be required to:
 
1. Receive the Investment funds in your name as the beneficiary from our company bank account.
2. Place these funds into profitable investment ventures.
3. Seek viable  investment ventures with an annual Return on Investment (ROI) between 5% to 10%.
4. Handle and manage the said investments for a minimum of Six (6) years.
 
Absolute confidentiality is required on your part in handling this transaction and subsequent investments.
 
I look forward to your swift response after which more details would be communicated to you.
 
Sincerely,
 
Dr. Latin
 

Anti-fraud resources: