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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: "From : Mr.W J. Coleman" <bh24@wj7r72a17.homepage.t-online.de>
Reply-To: <will_cole1100@hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 4 Feb 2012 09:36:43 -0000
Subject: GOOD DAY

>From : Mr.W J. Coleman
 
 
Dear Friend,
 
 
 
I need your services in a confidential matter regarding fund (US$36.8 Million)
out of a family beneficiary deposit.This requires a private arrangement.
 
 
 
You will receive these funds under legal claims; all legal documents will
be carefully worked out to ensure a risk free transfer. 30% of the total
sum would be your own portion at the end of this deal.
 
I have all the details. The funds in question are quite large ($36.8M).I
will expect a straight answer from you. If you are willing to
assist,kindly furnish me with your personal information which must include
your direct cell phone and fax, your address and company name.
 
 
Williams J. Coleman
 
 
 

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