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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: "MRS.JESSICA CLEMENT BOATENG" (may be fake)
Reply-To: <jcboateng@hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 11 May 2012 10:51:12 +0100
Subject: My name is Jessica Clement boateng.

Dear Sir,

Pardon me for the surprise my e-mail could cause you. I am Mrs. Jessica Boateng.
After a recent but devastating illness,I went to the hospital for check up and my
doctor diagnosed me of cancer and revealed that I shall live no more than eight months.

My deceased husband, Mr. John Boateng, having died some years ago without us having
children.I would wish to donate to you our life savings as willied to me by my late husband.
I will give my bank instructions for you to claim the money and be transferred to you as my
will to you and you become the beneficiary,if you could promise me to use the money according
to my wish for the construction of orphanages,Charity and health centers anywhere you may choose.

If you should carry out this wish of mine,my soul can then rest in peace.
I hope to count on you for this if it interests you.Presently, I live in London.
Anticipating your quick response.
Remain Blessed.
Mrs.Jessica Clements Boateng.

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