Advance Fee Scam
An Advance Fee Scam is a type of fraud where a scammer promises a large sum of money or a valuable prize in exchange for an upfront payment. Victims are often lured in by emails or messages claiming they have won a lottery or are entitled to inherit money from a wealthy relative. To claim their prize, they are asked to pay various fees, such as taxes or processing costs.
Once the victim pays the initial fee, the scammer may continue to invent new fees, keeping the victim engaged and hopeful. Ultimately, the scammer disappears, and the victim loses their money without receiving anything in return. This scam can involve fake organizations or even impersonate legitimate entities, making it crucial for individuals to be cautious and skeptical of unsolicited offers.