English

Noun

Nigerian scam ‎(plural Nigerian scams)

1. (Internet) An attempt to defraud by sending out large amounts of emails stating that the recipient is entitled to receive a large amount of money, but will need to supply banking account details, or to send payment for fees, before the payment can be passed on.

Translations

Synonyms

• 419 scam
• advance fee scam

Usage notes

Contrary to popular opinion, this scam is not new and has been used for almost eighty years, previously using postal mail.