419 is the loneliest number pt. 2

So, let's continue our examination of how a 419 scam proceeds.

After the mark answers the email, the mark will then receive an email answer.  The answer will be full of "thank you" and other forms of flattery.  Other emails will follow with details of the transfer, what needs to be done, the estimated time for the transfer, how things will proceed, etc.

Keep in mind, as all this is going on, the emails will also usually contain information about the turmoil in the host country (i.e. Nigeria).  The mark will receive emails about how the person is under investigation or there is the possibility of a civil war or some other tragedy or disaster.  The reason for this is that the scammers want the mark to feel that the person doing this transfer is placing his life at risk so the mark feels some sense of urgency and some feeling that the scammer is doing the mark a favor.

Also, at this stage, the mark will receive numerous documents with official looking stamps, seals, or logos which testifies to the authenticity of the alleged transfer to that the mark is given a sense of security.

The next step, for the scammer, is the most important part.  Part four of the scam (after the "thank-you" emails) is that the mark will now receive a request for an an advance fee.  This fee may be called by many names: a transfer tax, a performance bond, a bribe (although this is not as common), a refund, an "good faith" fee.  This is the critical stage of the scam for the scammer.  If the mark will pay this advance fee, the rest of the scam is in place.

Keep in mind - this is how the scammers make their money.  They have to convince the mark that fees are required.  These fees are usually sent via Western Union or some other money transfer device.  However, it is also not uncommon for the scammers to ask for bank account numbers, credit or debit card numbers or some other source of identification.

If the mark sends the money, the rest of the scam can proceed.  The scammer now has not only successfully baited the mark, the mark has swallowed the bait and it is time to move forward.

We will continue with an analysis of the next step of the 419 scam in the next post.

As always, have a great and fraud free day.

--------------->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>gene tausk