The following characteristics are usually found in letters sent by Nigerian fraudsters. Postal Inspectors note that the stamps on the letters are often counterfeit, as are any meter impressions or meter strips used, since postage meters aren’t used in Nigeria!

  • The envelopes are white, brown, or white with a red-and-blue border.
  • The envelopes are often handwritten and have no return address.
  • The envelopes are all about the same size: 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
  • Many envelopes are addressed to "president" or "CEO," rather than a specific name.
  • The letters are typed and photocopied.
  • The letters are usually marked "urgent" and "confidential."
  • The scheme is presented as a business proposal, and the sender alleges to be an auditor or accountant, with the title of "doctor."
  • The letter offers a commission of at least $10 million for assistance in transferring funds to the United States from Nigeria.
  • The latest modus operandi involves LOTTERIES.

Don’t fall for the scam! If you receive such a letter, do not respond. Either throw it away or send it to:

Inspection Service Operations Support Group
Two Gateway Center, 9th Floor
Newark, NJ 07175-0001

 

     

 

 

 Last Revised: Tuesday, October 09, 2007