419 Scams (advance fee fraud) , how companies operate unprotected and need to be proactive.

Preventing 419 (advance fraud fee/cash advance) scams, and ransomware scams from African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and as well as India would save victims, millions up to billions in just a single year alone. It’s been an ever growing issue, and people from all continents are targets. But should it actually be stopped?

            I will investigate methods to avoiding these scams through security, both mobile and computers, the ethical issues behind the scams (not enough work in their countries, low wage, etc.)  and how to identify a scam, what to do if you feel like you are being targeted, and who (if anyone,) to contact.

            I will use forums, videos, and even interview an actual scammer from Nigeria (I do have a real contact, and have a way to get him to cooperate). There is a good amount of data out there, but I don’t think much has been put together to present an argument either way.

            I believe my research will let my audience really understand the scope of how many people fall victim to these scams, why they are so popular, and whether or not something should be done about them.