wikipedia|Advance fee fraud
English
Etymology
Commonly originate from Nigeria, although the country of origin is often spoofed.
Noun
Nigerian scam (Plural Nigerian scams)
- internet An attempt to defraud by sending out large amounts of emails stating that the recipient has inherited a vast fortune, but will need to supply banking account details, or to send payment for fees, before the inheritence can by passed on.
Synonyms
419 scam
Advance fee scam
Usage notes
Contrary to popular opinion, this scam is not new and has been used for almost eighty years, previously using postal mail.
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