Internet Frauds · 1980s – present
The Nigerian Prince
A foreign official needs help moving millions and promises a generous cut — but every step forward requires another 'fee' from you.
The Confidence Game
Maria Konnikova
The single best explanation of why smart people say yes. Start here.
Now broadcasting: The Nigerian Prince
The short of it
The Nigerian Prince is a internet frauds that dates to the 1980s – present. A foreign official needs help moving millions and promises a generous cut — but every step forward requires another 'fee' from you. The tell is usually simple: emails from royalty, ministers, or bank officers you've never met. If you remember one thing, remember this — delete the email — no legitimate wealth transfer starts this way.
Warning Signs
- Emails from royalty, ministers, or bank officers you've never met.
- Endless new fees to unlock a promised transfer.
- Broken English and urgent, secret framing.
Protect Yourself
- Delete the email — no legitimate wealth transfer starts this way.
- Never send money to receive money.
- Report the message to your email provider and the FTC.
Read Deeper
The Confidence Game
Maria Konnikova
Why we fall for it — every time. A definitive study of the con artist's mind.
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Watch it unfold
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Play the grift
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Lock the door
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