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"419" Scam – Advance Fee / Fake Lottery Scam

• About the 419 (Advance Fee) scam
• "Is that email a scam?" - Check it online here!
  
• Frequently asked Questions (419 FAQ)
• Phone numbers used by 419 scammers
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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.

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:

• The following phrases in this message should put you on alert:
  • "dear friend" (a common phrase found in 419 scams)
  • "million united states dollars" (they want you to be blinded by the prospect of quick money, but the only money that ever changes hands in 419 scams is from you to the criminals)
• This email message is a 419 scam. Please see our 419 FAQ for more details on such scams.
  

Fraud email example:

From: Zaohang Lin <zaohanglin11@yahoo.com.hk>
Date: Sat, 12 Jul 2008 13:59:08 -0500
Subject: Beneficiary Call.

Dear Friend,

I need your services in a confidential matter regarding money out of a beneficiary deposit for investment in your country as such I decided to establish contact with you for assistance. This requires a private arrangement, as you will receive these funds under legal claims; all legal documents will be carefully worked out to ensure a risky free claim.

I am willing to share the funds 50/50 as soon as this transaction is completed. I have all the details, which I would provide with your corresponding email. The funds in question amounts to about $30 million United States dollars. I will expect a straight answer from you. Yes or No. If yes, Kindly furnish me with your full names and telephone/fax numbers.

Please Send me an e-mail as soon as you receive this letter for further discussion and more clarification. My personal email is : zaohanglin2001@yahoo.cn

Regards,
Zaohang Lin.

Anti-fraud resources:

• What can you do when you receive 419 spam