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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: "Donna" (may be fake)
Reply-To: <filexsum@yahoo.co.jp>
Date: Sat, 25 Apr 2015 01:24:53 -0700
Subject: Re: Greetings from Donna

Hi; Dear,

Greetings; My Name is Mrs. Donna L.Hollander, I am 65 Years old and reside in Cotonou, Benin Republic. I will have to be brief as i am very weak at the moment. I lost my husband in November 5th 2005 in an Auto Car accident along side my Two Sons and my lovely Daughter. After the great loss, i managed my husbands investments until my present Medical Condition developed. I was diagnosed of Lungs Cancer and my doctor says i will soon die. Since i do not have anyone to Inherit my acquired wealth Now that i am a Born again Christian, I decided to donate all to the less privilege once as i grew up in an orphanage home.

I am writing this letter to you because my inner most spirit reveled to me that you can help. I know that my story will sadden your heart but my new found life has made me understand that even if we die in this physical flesh, What matters is life after death.

I will let you know on how to reach the Bank where I deposited the fund and will also instruct my attorney to correspond with you as regards to the beneficial right as soon as i have your word and promise not to betray my trust.

Waiting to hear from you.

Sincerely

Donna L.Hollander

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