Beware of Email Scammers Offering Free Money
419 Scams – Advance Fee Fraud
419 Scams – Advance Fee Fraud – Nigerian Prince/Famous Person Scams – The Scams That Never Go Away – In Your Email Inbox Almost Every Day!
How Scams Work – A SCARS Institute Insight
Author:
• SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Article Abstract
The 419 scam, named after Nigeria’s criminal code outlawing advance fee fraud, exploits victims by promising rewards in exchange for upfront payments that never yield returns. Originating in the 1980s through postal and fax schemes, it gained notoriety with the “Nigerian Prince” trope.
With the rise of the internet, scammers transitioned to email, social media, and messaging apps, using elaborate narratives and fake documents to deceive. Over decades, the scam has diversified into romance, lottery, and charity frauds, causing financial and emotional harm worldwide. Despite advancements in cybersecurity, scammers persist, highlighting the importance of awareness and skepticism in prevention.
419 Scams – Advance Fee Fraud – Nigerian Prince/Famous Person Scams – The Scams That Never Go Away – In Your Email Inbox Almost Every Day!
The term “419 scam” refers to a specific type of fraud rooted in advance fee schemes, where victims are promised a significant reward in exchange for an upfront payment. Named after Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, where these scams initially gained notoriety, this form of fraud has become a global phenomenon, evolving into various sophisticated formats while maintaining its core mechanism of exploitation.
In a typical 419 scam, fraudsters craft compelling narratives, often involving fake inheritances, lottery winnings, lucrative business opportunities, or urgent financial assistance requests. Victims are persuaded to transfer money or share sensitive personal information to “unlock” a promised financial windfall or fulfill fabricated legal requirements. Once the payment is made, the scammers disappear, leaving victims not only financially damaged but also emotionally betrayed.
These scams exploit human vulnerabilities, including trust, greed, and a willingness to help. They often rely on social engineering techniques, personalized communication, and the illusion of legitimacy to deceive their targets. Over time, 419 scams have expanded beyond email solicitations to include social media, online dating platforms, and other digital channels.
Despite their sometimes outlandish claims, 419 scams continue to ensnare countless victims worldwide, highlighting the importance of public awareness, skepticism, and education in combating this persistent and evolving threat. Recognizing the red flags and understanding the tactics used by scammers are critical steps in safeguarding oneself against these fraudulent schemes.
A Brief History of 419 Scams – Advance Fee Fraud
The origins of “419 scams,” named after the Nigerian Criminal Code Section 419 that outlaws fraudulent activities, date back decades. This type of fraud, formally known as advance fee fraud, involves promising victims a significant financial reward in exchange for an upfront payment. The promised reward never materializes, leaving victims out of pocket and emotionally distressed.
Early Beginnings: Postal and Fax Scams
The roots of 419 scams can be traced to the 1980s when fraudsters used postal mail and fax machines to send out letters containing elaborate schemes. These early scams often involved fake business proposals, claims of unclaimed inheritances, or appeals for help from supposed wealthy individuals who needed assistance moving funds out of a politically unstable country. Many of these narratives were tied to the oil boom in Nigeria, lending a veneer of plausibility to their claims.
The Nigerian Prince Stereotype
One of the most infamous and enduring versions of the 419 scam is the “Nigerian Prince” scheme. In this scenario, a fraudster poses as royalty or a high-ranking official from Nigeria (or other countries) and claims to need assistance transferring a large sum of money. Victims are promised a share of the fortune in exchange for providing personal information or covering upfront “transaction fees.” Despite its outlandish premise, this scam has ensnared countless victims due to its emotional appeal and the allure of quick wealth.
The Internet Boom and Email Scams
The advent of the internet in the 1990s and early 2000s revolutionized 419 scams, providing fraudsters with cheap and easy access to millions of potential victims. Emails replaced letters, and scam messages became widespread, flooding inboxes worldwide. The emails often featured dramatic stories of political instability, vast inheritances, or distressed individuals seeking urgent help. As the scams evolved, they incorporated official-looking documents, fake websites, and stolen logos to enhance their credibility.
Diversification of Tactics
Over time, 419 scams diversified beyond the Nigerian Prince trope. Variants include romance scams, lottery scams, and fake charity appeals. Scammers began targeting victims on social media, dating platforms, and messaging apps. They also employed new techniques, such as phishing links and malware, to steal information and money.
Global Spread and Impact
While Nigeria is often associated with 419 scams, similar schemes have been conducted by fraudsters worldwide. The scams have caused significant financial and emotional harm to victims, with losses amounting to billions of dollars annually. Their persistence underscores the challenges of addressing transnational fraud, especially when perpetrators operate across jurisdictions with limited enforcement capabilities.
Modern Adaptations
In recent years, scammers have become more sophisticated, using advanced technology and social engineering to refine their schemes. The rise of cryptocurrencies, for instance, has given fraudsters new ways to demand payment, making transactions harder to trace. However, increased public awareness and advances in cybersecurity have also made it more challenging for scammers to operate undetected.
Lessons and Legacy
The history of 419 scams serves as a cautionary tale about the enduring vulnerabilities of human psychology, particularly our susceptibility to greed, trust, and emotional manipulation. Despite their evolution, the core principle of these scams remains the same: exploiting victims’ desires or fears to extract money or personal information. Awareness and vigilance remain the best defenses against this type of fraud.
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: ATTENTION: DID YOU AUTHORISE MR WILSON THOMAS?
ATTENTION: DID YOU AUTHORISE MR WILSON THOMAS?
We received an email from MR. WILSON THOMAS? Stating that he is your Brother and you have given him the permission to claim your package worth of $950,000.00 USD, ATM CARD scheduled for delivery to your residence address which was returned back to our office due to insufficient/incorrect delivery address.
Your package is amongst the 8 parcels still in our custody that are still awaiting dispatch due to incorrect/insufficient receiver’s/delivery address.
The package was deposited on July 11th, 2023 by your agent, he paid the original shipping/handling fees and your package was sent to your Address, it was returned to our office 5 days later due to an incorrect delivery address.
Confirm that Mr. Wilson Thomas, was authorized by you to receive your package. If yes, do send us a letter of authorization instructing us to ship the package to His address upon which he will be paying for the SECURITY KEEPING Fee of $100 USD, immediately before the Package will be shipped to his Address Below.
1922 N Alvarado St,
Los Angeles, CA 90039
USA.
And if No please, Do also re-confirm your delivery address correctly below as follows to avoid another misunderstanding.
Send your correspondence to the manager:
1.)FULL NAME:…..
2.)ADDRESS:…….
3.)COUNTRY:…….
4.)AGE:………
5.)SEX:………
6.)PHONE:…..
7.)OCCUPATION…..
8.)ALTERNATIVE EMAILS ADDRESS:…………..
9.)SCAN COPY OF YOUR INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT/DRIVING LICENSE:..
Mr. Charles martins
Email Address: gregbeltwas78@gmail.com
Mr. Charles martins, Will be waiting to receive your authorization letter for onward shipment To Mr. Wilson Thomas, so that we can allow him to pay for the SECURITY KEEPING fee of the package which is the sum of $100 USD before we can commerce with the delivery without any delay.
Faithfully,
Mrs. Barbara Curtis
Public Relations Officer.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
Sent by: U.S. Postal Service <test@yesmall.com.tw>
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: ` ` Piano ` `
Hello,
I’m giving out my late husband’s Yamaha Baby Grand Piano for free to any passionate instrument lover. kindly let me know if you want it or have someone else who wants it.
Thanks,
Teri
Sent by: Teri Ford <nhazin002@gmail.com>
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: Business Proposal Opportunity
Dear Friend,
I hope this message finds you in good spirits.
My name is Prof. Christoph Lang, and I serve as the Senior Executive Internal Auditor at Delen Private Bank. I have an important business proposal concerning a deceased foreign client of the bank who has the same last name as you.
I believe this opportunity could be advantageous for both of us. If you would like to know more, please respond to this message for additional details. I assure you that this transaction is entirely risk-free.
Best regards,
Prof. Christopher Lang
Sent by: Prof. Christoph Lang <ellalevesque2867@proton.me>
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: [EXTERNAL]DONATION !!!!
Hello,
I’m Stefano Pessina, an Italian business tycoon, investor, and philanthropist.the vice chairman, chief executive officer (CEO), and the single largest shareholder of Walgreens Boots Alliance. I gave away 25 percent of my personal wealth to charity. And I also pledged to give away the rest of 25% this year 2024 to Individuals.. I have decided to donate Ђ3.000,000.00(Three million euros)to you. If you are interested in my donation, do contact me for more info.
Warm Regard
CEO Walgreens Boots Alliance
Stefano Pessina
NOTA DE CONFIDENCIALIDAD: La información contenida en esta transmisión está destinada únicamente a las personas o entidades a la que se dirige. Puede contener información privilegiada y confidencial, incluida Información de Salud Protegida (PHI). Si usted no es el destinatario, se le notifica que cualquier revisión, difusión, distribución o duplicación de esta comunicación está estrictamente prohibida. Si recibe esta comunicación por error, notifique al remitente inmediatamente y destruya este mensaje. CONFIDENTIALITY NOTE: The information contained in this transmission is intended only for the persons or entities to which it is addressed. It may contain privileged and confidential information, including Protected Health Information (PHI). If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any revision, dissemination, distribution or duplication of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you receive this communication by error, notify the sender immediately and destroy this message.
Sent by: STEFANO PESSINA <info@pessina.it>
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: Hello! Please pay attention! This is not spam! Your email was given to me in a dating agency, dating through the Internet. It took me a long time to decide to write to you. The current situation in my life gave me the confidence to
Please pay attention! This is not spam! Your email was given to me in a dating agency, dating through the Internet. It took me a long time to decide to write to you. The current situation in my life gave me the confidence to write you a letter. It’s time to drastically change our life. I’m here looking for a man for a serious relationship! You are a free man ? Are you looking for a girl for a serious relationship? Let’s start our acquaintance and communication! You’ll like it ! You can see my photo. I have attached it to the letter. I forgot to say the most important! My name is Kunduz. I’m 28 years old . Born and live in Kyrgyz Republic. City of Bishkek. I hope that distance is not a problem for our communication ? I heard about many examples when men and women from different countries manage to build happy relationships. Maybe this story is about us too! Each of us has the right to happiness! If there is even one chance in a million to be together, let’s use it! Please text me back ONLY if you are looking for a serious relationship! It is very important ! I’ll be waiting ! I will write more about myself and my life in my next letter. After your answer. I am very glad to start our communication! I wish you a good mood! Kunduz
Kunduz
Sent by: PUNISHER <ghostworm157@gmail.com>
ACTUAL SCAM EMAIL:
SUBJECT: Explore Top Funding Options for Your Business
Dear —,
I hope this message finds you well!
I’m excited to introduce you to Qatari Investors Group (QIG), a leading provider of innovative funding solutions tailored to help your business thrive and complete projects efficiently.
We are pleased to offer a competitive 3% non-collateral loan with a 24-month grace period. This unique financing option allows you the flexibility to establish your business or finish your project before any interest begins to accrue. Please note that we specialize solely in debt financing and loans, and do not engage in partnerships or joint ventures.
Should you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email
We look forward to supporting your business endeavors!
Best regards,
Rami Atieh
Finance Director
Qatari Investors Group (QIG)
OM-20 – Lusail, Zone No: 69, Street No: 223
Lusail, Qatar
Sent by: Rami Atieh <ramiatieh@ease-servicesgroup.com>
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Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
SCARS Resources:
- Getting Started Right: ScamVictimsSupport.org
- Sextortion Scam Victims: Sextortion Victims Support – The Essentials (scamvictimssupport.org)
- For New Victims of Relationship Scams newvictim.AgainstScams.org
- Subscribe to SCARS Newsletter newsletter.againstscams.org
- Sign up for SCARS professional support & recovery groups, visit support.AgainstScams.org
- Join our Scam Survivors United Chat & Discussion Group facebook.com/groups/scam.survivors.united
- Find competent trauma counselors or therapists, visit counseling.AgainstScams.org
- Become a SCARS Member and get free counseling benefits, visit membership.AgainstScams.org
- Report each and every crime, learn how to at reporting.AgainstScams.org
- Learn more about Scams & Scammers at RomanceScamsNOW.com and ScamsNOW.com
- Scammer photos ScammerPhotos.com
- SCARS Videos youtube.AgainstScams.org
- Self-Help Books for Scam Victims are at shop.AgainstScams.org
- Worldwide Crisis Hotlines: https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/
Other Cyber Resources
- Block Scam Domains: Quad9.net
- Global Cyber Alliance ACT Cybersecurity Tool Website: Actionable Cybersecurity Tools (ACT) (globalcyberalliance.org) https://act.globalcyberalliance.org/index.php/Actionable_Cybersecurity_Tools_(ACT)_-_Simplified_Cybersecurity_Protection
- Wizer Cybersecurity Training – Free Security Awareness Training, Phishing Simulation and Gamification (wizer-training.com)
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More SCARS
- ScamsNOW Magazine – ScamsNOW.com
- ContraEstafas.org
- ScammerPhotos.com
- AnyScam.com – reporting
- AgainstScams.org – SCARS Corporate Website
- SCARS YouTube Video Channel
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