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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: mrsnonsazuma@yahoo.com
Date: Thu, 01 Sep 2005 22:44:02 +0200
Subject: God Bless You!!!!!!!

ATTN.C/E/O,



I write to seek your services in a private confidential matter regarding the Late Mr (A) Williams, who died leaving some funds unclaimed in our bank without any beneficiary. Am aware that you might not be related to him but I want you to stand as the beneficiary and I will fill you in since I have all the details for the transfer proper.


This requires a private arrangement. Could you perhaps be able to receive these funds under legal claims then I will fill you in. I am willing to pay a generous management and transfer fees and your participation.20%


I will need you in legal capacity to stand as his beneficiary. I have all the details and will fill you in if you are really willing. Your major role would be to open a bank account where the funds will be transferred.


The funds in question are quite large of ($5.02M). I will expect a straight answer from you. Yes or no. If yes, then let's work out the modalities and a brief profile of your person is expected.



Mrs.Zuma.





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