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What is 419 Fraud? A Comprehensive Guide to the Scam
Definition & meaning
419 fraud, commonly known as the Nigerian scam, is a type of financial scam that typically begins with an unsolicited email. In this scam, the sender claims to need assistance in transferring a large sum of money, often promising a significant commission in return. Victims are usually asked to send money to cover fees related to the transfer or to provide sensitive personal information, such as bank account or credit card details. Once the victim complies, the scammer may disappear or misuse the provided information for further fraudulent activities.
Table of content
Legal use & context
419 fraud falls under the category of financial fraud and is addressed in both civil and criminal law. Legal professionals may encounter this term when dealing with cases of identity theft, wire fraud, or other financial crimes. Victims of 419 fraud may seek legal remedies to recover lost funds or to report the crime to law enforcement. Users can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft reports or complaints related to such scams.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(hypothetical example) A user receives an email claiming to be from a wealthy individual in Nigeria who needs help transferring $10 million. In exchange for assistance, the user is promised a 20 percent commission. The scammer requests $5,000 to cover legal fees. After sending the money, the user never hears from the scammer again.
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Legal Approach
California
Strict penalties for financial fraud.
New York
Robust consumer protection laws against scams.
Texas
Enforcement of identity theft laws.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Wire fraud
Fraud involving electronic communications or transactions.
419 fraud is a specific type of wire fraud that often involves international scams.
Identity theft
Unauthorized use of someone else's personal information.
419 fraud may lead to identity theft but is primarily focused on financial gain through deception.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you believe you have been targeted by 419 fraud, take the following steps:
Do not send any money or provide personal information.
Report the scam to your local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Consider using legal forms from US Legal Forms to draft a complaint or report.
If you have already sent money, contact your bank immediately for assistance.
In complex cases, seeking professional legal help may be necessary.
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