How did the Nigerian 419 scam use email to commit Internet fraud?

The "419" scam, named after the relevant section of the Nigerian criminal code, is a form of advance fee fraud that exploits Internet communication to deceive victims.12

In this scheme, perpetrators send unsolicited e-mail messages to potential targets, posing as government officials or business representatives. The messages typically claim that the sender needs assistance transferring a large sum of money—often described as assets like oil or cash requiring "laundering"—out of a country due to circumstances such as civil war, inheritance, or embezzlement.12

To receive a promised share of these millions, the recipient is instructed to pay an upfront "processing fee" or cover costs associated with moving the funds. Once the victim sends money via wire transfer, check, or money order, the scammers claim that new complications have arisen, demanding further payments. Ultimately, no funds are ever transferred to the victim, and the perpetrators disappear with the stolen money. This fraud relies on preying upon the victim's greed and naivety, often using the pretense of illegal activity to discourage victims from contacting law enforcement.12