419 Scams

A 419 scam, also known as an advance-fee scam, involves fraudsters claiming they need money or personal details to unlock a large sum of money—often from a distant relative's estate, a business deal, or a government fund. They persuade victims to pay upfront fees, promising a significant payout in return. Once the fee is paid, the scammer disappears, and the promised funds are never delivered. These scams exploit trust and urgency, often using official-looking documents and convincing stories to deceive individuals into paying or sharing sensitive information.