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

Fraud email example:

From: "Michael Hull" (may be fake)
Reply-To: <michael.hull@globomail.com>
Date: Mon, 8 Jul 2013 06:50:30 -0700
Subject: Greetings

Greetings,
 
I have interest of investing in your country as well seek your services in a private confidential matter regarding the late account 
holder who died leaving some funds unclaimed in our bank without any beneficiary. This requires a private arrangement. Could you perhaps be 
able to receive these funds under legal claims then I will fill you in. I am willing to Part with 10% or more of the total funds for your 
participation and assistance.
 
I need assistance from a trustworthy and reliable person whom I will fill in as the beneficiary/next of kin to the late account holder to 
provide an account where this fund will be remitted. I have all the details and will fill you in if you are really willing and capable to 
work the deal with me. Your major role would be to open a bank account where the funds will be transferred.
 
The funds in question are quite large (about 187.5M). I will expect a straight answer from you. Yes or no. If yes, then let's work out the 
modalities and i will expect to have your most confidential phone number to call you for oral explanation before we proceed.
Closing with anticipation.
Mr. Michael Hull

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