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joewein.de LLC
fighting spam and scams on the Internet
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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:
- This email uses a separate reply address that is different from the sender address. Spammers use this to get replies even when the original spam sending accounts have been shut down. Also, sometimes the sender addresses are legitimate looking but fake and only the reply address is actually an email account controlled by the scammers.
- The following phrases in this message should put you on alert:
- "remain blessed" (scammers in West Africa like to use religious phrases)
- This email message is a "dying widow" scam.
Fraud email example:
From: Marina Fernandes <marina_fernandes44@linkmailers.com>
Reply-To: marinafernandes26@yahoo.com.ph
Date: Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:35:18 -0800 (PST)
Subject: From Mrs Marina Fernandes
Dear Beloved In Christ,
I am Mrs Marina Fernandes from Cape Verde, When my late husband was alive we deposited the sum of $4.7 Million (USD) dollars in a Bank here in Cote d'Ivoire.
I have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, my Doctor told me that I would not last for the next Four months due to the cancer problem. From all indications the cancer has gotten to a very dangerous stage. Having known my condition I decided to donate this fund to good person that will utilize this money the way I am to instruct herein.
I want to use this money at least 80% of the fund for orphanages, widows and also propagating the word of God and to endeavor that the house of God is maintained. The remaining 20% is for you and the sick ones in the hospitals around your Country. Please assure me that you will act accordingly as I Stated herein. Hoping to receive your response immedaitely.
Thanks and Remain blessed in the Lord. l remain
yours sister in Christ,
Mrs Marina Fernandes
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Anti-fraud resources:
