419 Fraud, named after Article 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, is a type of advance-fee scam where fraudsters promise victims a significant share of a large sum of money in exchange for a small up-front payment. Despite its "Nigerian Prince" nickname, these scams now originate from many countries and take various forms.
Key Characteristics
- Promise of large sums of money
- Request for advance fees
- Elaborate backstories
- Sense of urgency
- Appeals to emotion or greed
Common Scenarios
- Inheritance claims
- Business investment opportunities
- Lottery winnings
- Humanitarian appeals
- Romance-based schemes
Warning Signs
- Unsolicited contact
- Requests for personal information
- Urgency or pressure tactics
- Poor grammar or spelling
- Official-looking documents
- Multiple participants involved
Prevention Measures
- Never send money to unknown persons
- Verify all opportunities independently
- Be skeptical of unsolicited contacts
- Don't share personal information
- Report suspicious activities
419 Fraud continues to evolve with technology, using sophisticated email templates, social media, and cryptocurrency payments. Education and awareness remain the best defenses against these scams.