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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: SMITH KIHO MAHAU <skmahau@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 6 Dec 2022 05:12:12 +0000
Subject: !! HUMANITARIAN PURPOSE !!

My Dear,

I have lived in Ukraine, Seinfeld for the past 30 years, I am an
Italian Citizen by birth. I am writing you this message because of
the current war situation herein.

I lost my immediate family (Wife and daughter) last week, so I decided
to stay here and defend the land I found loved since my late wife was
from Ukraine'

I have some funds deposited in Holland with a security firm (12 M
DOLLARS), I want you to help me claim it to assist humanity if
possible displaced Ukraine citizens.

If I survive, I still will not need the funds, I have had it in
deposit for over 3 years. If you believe that you have the ability and
time to carry out my quest do reply to me.

Much love, pray for me.

Kiho .

Anti-fraud resources: