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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.

Click here to report a problem with this page.

 

 

Some comments by the Scam-O-Matic about the following email:

Fraud email example:

From: "Mr. Michael Makoko" <mako3682@gmail.com>
Reply-To: mrmak77@live.co.uk
Date: Thu, 4 Sep 2008 13:53:47 -0700
Subject: Greetings From: Mr. Michael Makoko,


Greetings From: Mr. Michael Makoko,

It interests me to contact you after my investigations on your capability
and sincerity.
I have interest of investing in your country as well as seek your services
in a private and confidential matter. I am Senior Auditor heading computing
department here in our bank.On my routine inspection I discovered a dormant
domiciliary account with a Balance of ($14.02 Million USD}.I write to seek
your indulgence and assistance in transferring this fund to your country
through legal means.I am proposing to make this transfer to a designated
bank account of your choice in your country for investment. Both of us will
agree on what will be the % share of each party on the investment project.

NOTE:My plan is to invest my own share of the money in your country.1. What
other lucrative investments would you suggest as I intend to invest on REAL
ESTATE AND HOTELS if they are good business venture in your Country? 2. Can
you be able to make residential documents and purchase a house for me and my
family to relocate and settle in your country after my retirement in 6months
time?
Let me know if you can handle it.
Regards,
Mr. Michael Makoko.
Private Email: mrmak77@live.co.uk

Anti-fraud resources: