|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
NIGERIAN 419 SCAMS
This scam is named after the Nigerian Criminal Code that violates. The scheme seeks to extract money from victims by making them believe that they will receive a large sum of money for their services. The scammer will send an urgent e-mail regarding large amounts of money that must be transferred out of Nigeria (or some other foreign country). The scammer will then insist on upfront funds from you to cover costs, bribes, etc. or may ask you to travel to that country. Here are some things to remember:
|
•
|
 |
Never give ANYONE personal information unless you initiated the contact and are positive you know who you are dealing with. |
|
•
|
|
If you receive any e-mail from an unfamiliar source, discard it at once. |
|
•
|
|
You can only win a lottery or contest if you have actually entered to win. If you receive an e-mail that claims you have won something, make sure it is something you actually entered to win. |
|
•
|
|
If something sounds too good to be true; it is!
|
This scam has many different variations. Sometimes they claim you have won a lottery. Sometimes a royal family member has passed and they need you to convert funds for some reason. These scammers can make everything sound and look official. They use letterhead from South American banks, use “official” stamps and seals, and produce official looking documents.
See an example of an initial contact letter from a scammer.
For more information on this scam or to report an offer you have received visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
back to previous page
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
