Scam type
Advance Fee Scams
A payment is demanded up front to release a larger sum that does not exist.
Warning signs
- • Unexpected windfall from an unknown sender
- • Fees payable by gift card, crypto or money transfer
- • Documents with inconsistent details
- • Strong secrecy or urgency
Tactics used
- • Impersonating banks, courts, couriers or government bodies
- • Forged certificates and payment slips
- • Threats that the funds will be forfeited
If it happened to you
- • Stop paying and keep every document and payment receipt.
- • Verify any organisation independently using its official contact details.
- • Report the incident and index the identifiers used.
What this scam is
Advance fee scams promise an inheritance, prize, loan, grant, compensation payment or released shipment, conditional on paying processing, legal or customs charges first.
How it typically unfolds
- An unexpected message announces money owed to the recipient.
- Official-looking documents or references are supplied.
- A modest fee is requested to release the funds.
- Each payment is followed by a new, unavoidable charge.
Documenting the incident
Before you block anyone, export the conversation and capture profile links, websites, wallet addresses and every payment reference. Then submit a report so the identifiers can be matched against other cases.
ScamGuard Pro provides scam reporting, information and recovery-support services. Recovery outcomes depend on the circumstances of each case and cannot be guaranteed. Anyone promising guaranteed recovery is running a second scam.