Advance fee fraud lawyers

Advanced fee fraud FAQs

Allegations of fraud are serious and legal representation is vital, especially if you have been falsely accused of advance fee fraud. The penalties for this type of fraud can range from a fine and disqualification as a company director to a prison sentence that can go up to ten years. For more information about advance fee fraud, read our FAQs.

What does advance fee fraud mean?

An advance-fee fraud scam is when a victim is promised a large sum of money in return for a small up-front payment, then, of course, the promised money is never transferred. Sometimes the fraudsters will also ask for bank account details.

Victims are often targeted in several ways, including email, fax, text messages and through email hijacking. Other methods that have been used by fraudsters include bogus job offers, lottery scams and fake online rentals for goods. 

Why is advance fee fraud called 419?

Advanced fee fraud is sometimes called 419 because such scams became associated with Nigerian criminal groups, and in Nigeria, the criminal code for these scams is 419. Many advance fee frauds do originate abroad, however, there are domestic fraudsters who use this type of scam or are in association with international criminal gangs.

How does advance fee fraud work?

Advance free fraud works by the fraudsters asking for an advance fee before sending promised money, stocks, services, goods, a job or, in some cases, holiday rentals, that are never received or do not exist. Typically, the victim, whether that's a business or an individual, will receive some form of solicitation, such as an email, text message or fax. Generally, the victim may be also asked for personal information, such as their name, address, phone number and banking information. If the victim takes the bait, they will be given information on how to transfer the advance money. Usually, this will be by wire transfer to an overseas bank account. Once the money is received, the fraudsters either quickly disappear or try and trick more money out of the victim.

If you or your business are being accused of advance fee fraud, it is essential that you get expert legal advice and representation. At Stephensons, we are expert in this field and can help you get the best outcome possible for your case. Contact us today on 01616 966 229.