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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:
- The following phrases in this message should put you on alert:
- "dear friend" (a common phrase found in 419 scams)
- "million 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)
- "joyjohnyson@gmx.us" (this email address has been used in a known scam)
- This email message is a 419 scam. Please see our 419 FAQ for more details on such scams.
Fraud email example:
From: "MRS. JOY JOHNSON" (may be fake)
Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2012 21:06:18 +0530
Subject: WHO WILL SEND MY WILL TO ORPHANAGE ONES!!!!!
Dear Friend
Although we have never met before but looking at your profile gives me a good reason to contact you.
I am writing this mail to you with heavy tears In my eyes and great sorrow in my heart because my Doctor told me that I will die in three months time.
Based on this development I want to will my money which is deposited in a bank.
I am in search of a reliable person who will use the Money to build charity organization for the saints and the person will take 20% of the total sum. While 80% of the money will go to charity organizations and helping the orphanages.
I grew up as an Orphan and i don't have anybody/family member to take care of my wealth. The total money in question is $3.5million dollars.I will provide you with other information's once you indicate your willingness
Please contact me on my personal email on: joyjohnyson@gmx.us
Yours sincerely.
Mrs joy johnson
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Anti-fraud resources:
