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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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Fraud email example:

From: michael10@terra.com.mx
Date: Mon, 2 May 2005 17:17:24 +0200
Subject: TREAT AS MOST URGENT


Dear Friend

I am Mr.Michael B smith,an Executive Director of Projects , in a multinational
firm. I decided to forward to you this business proposal in anticipation
that you may be in position to assist/handle this business with us.
WE want you to assist us in receiving funds from a company we assisted
in their bid for a contract in our firm based on an earlier promise to us.
The company has therefore requested for information from us of who is to
receive the promised amount on our behalf and because we are not allowed
by company rules and regulation as in any other company to receive gratification
for service rendered officially or operate or own foreign accounts, hence
the need for your assistance .On our part, all modalities had been worked
out in ensuring a smooth transaction .All I want from you is your full name
and Address and your company name, you want the cheques to be issued on
and as soon as you indicate your Interest.The cheques will be issue in
your name,On accomplishment of this deal you will be entitled to 10% of
the total sum. If this proposal is accepted by you, kindly reach me immediately
via e-mail michealsmith555libero.it ;furnish me with your confidential
telephone numbers.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best regards
MrMICHAEL B SMITH;

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