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  • Nigerian letters

Fake inheritance and lottery scams

Easy money? Not so fast.

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Fake inheritance and lottery scams

Easy money? Not so fast.

Promises of quick cash often hide a scam

You get an unexpected message saying: “Congratulations, you’ve been chosen to receive a €10 million inheritance.” or “You’ve won a lottery prize.”.

Even if the story sounds far-fetched, scammers know how to grab their victims' attention. They often pose as an exiled prince, a supposed heir, or a representative of a foreign lottery. But they all have the same goal:to deceive you and get your money.

How do fake inheritance and lottery scams work?

0
The first contact

It all starts with an eye-catching message sent via email, social media or WhatsApp, claiming you've won a huge prize or inherited a fortune.

The message often includes a prestigious name, an extraordinary backstory, and a photo designed to inspire trust.

1
Request for upfront payment

In exchange for the supposed windfall, the scammer asks for an initial payment to cover supposed administrative fees, taxes or commissions.

If the person agrees, the scammer makes up new excuses to keep requesting more money.

2
Emotional manipulation

Scammers use urgency, emotional pressure or the promise of wealth to convince the victim. Every step is carefully planned to make the scam seem more believable.

3
End of communication

Once the victim starts to get suspicious or refuses to pay more, the scammer disappears, and the promised money never arrives.

Keys to preventing this type of scam

Be wary of messages about unexpected prizes or inheritances.

Never share personal or banking details with unknown individuals or through unverified channels.

Don’t make upfront payments for vague reasons.

Always verify information through reliable sources and official channels.

Do you think you may have been a victim of a scam?


Scams are often disguised as emergencies or threats. Be especially wary of any urgent requests for details or payments.


Keep calm, use your common sense, and if you think you might be a victim of fraud, get in touch with CaixaBank immediately through the official channels: Wall or by calling 938 87 25 25.

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