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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: "Rose Okadigbo" <rose2mail@msn.com>
Reply-To: rose3001@rediffmail.com
Date: Wed, 07 Dec 2005 14:25:22 +0000
Subject: My Dear Friend

My Dear Friend,

I am Mrs.Rose Okadigbo wife of the former senate president of nigeria. my life is in danger after the killing of my husband. the killers are after my life because of his political campaign for presidential election and all documents relating  to a transaction he did with a russia company worth $10.5 Million to supply crude oil to russia are with me.
 
I intend coming to your country for investment but this money have to be transfer into your account first which I will give you the name and address of the bank to contact.
I will see to it that the account is not traced from my country. As soon as
you have confirmed the fund into your account, note 20% of the principal sum
However, you have to assure me and also be ready to go into agreement with
me that you will no telope with my fund.
 
If you agree to my terms, kindly as a matter of urgency send me an email. I will also like you to give me your contact address of telephone, fax and email to enable my Attorney call or reach you from time to time. this transaction is 100% risk free to me and you If you do not feel
comfortable with this transaction, do not hesitate to discontinue. Thanks for your anticipated co-operation and my regards to your family.
 
Yours faithfully,
Mrs.Rose Okadigbo
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