The "419" scam is an aspect of transnational financial crime with a 'modus operandi' peculiar to the Nigerian swindler.

The most recurrent type of transnational "419" scam is the "advance fee fraud." It is usually introduced in the form of a business contract, a transfer of stolen money or money from over-invoiced contract, the purchase of crude oil from Nigeria at a relatively cheap rate, and transfer of money left by a deceased person (will scam). In all situations, the victim is eventually lured into an endless period of advance fee payment. The "black money" scam is almost as popular...