Just silly Nigerian prince emails? Understanding the fraud economy in West Africa

While the phrase “Nigerian prince emails” is commonly used to describe West African based fraud, the reality is that the scope and operations of the fraud now make it one of the most coordinated and organized globally. We will explore how, what began as simple emails, has evolved into a complex fraud economy, costing victims and business billions each year.

One of the most well-known schemes is the 419 Advance Fee Fraud, named after the relevant section of the Nigerian Criminal Code which deals with obtaining of property or money by false pretences. This West African fraud ecosystem targeting Australians, however, has evolved from simple emails into romance and extortion scams, investment fraud, identity theft and phishing based business email compromise (BEC). One of their most successful types are non-delivery scams, which our group has been investigating now for over three years.

We will showcase our findings over more than three years, providing statistics on the locations of the fraudsters, their methods for targeting victims, and their global web of money laundering.

Impact goes far beyond monetary loss. Victims often face secondary victimisation, being re-targeted again by the same individuals, or having their details shared. The psychological trauma can be devastating, especially in romance fraud, where victims are emotionally manipulated over long periods of time. Additionally, victims are being blamed or shamed by their family, community or authorities for “falling for it.”

Unlike in 419s infancy, these crimes are not just committed by lone individuals in internet cafes. Many are orchestrated by organised criminal syndicates with extensive reach. Groups like Black Axe, Airlords, and other organised crime gangs operate using fraud profits to fund further criminal activities, including human trafficking, weapons smuggling, and political corruption.

Of particular concern is the glamorisation of fraud among youth in parts of West Africa. Communities often see them as a success stories, flaunting luxury lifestyles funded by ill gotten gains. Music videos, social media influencers, and even local religious leaders sometimes reinforce these narratives, portraying fraud as a legitimate path out of poverty. For example, in Ghana, “sakawa” blends cyber fraud with ritualistic practices, often guided by so-called “juju priests.” These practices are believed to spiritually “bless” fraudulent efforts and ensure success, creating a dangerous fusion of crime and superstition.

To support these fraudulent operations, a sophisticated money laundering infrastructure has emerged. Funds are frequently moved through layers of bank accounts, cryptocurrency, shell companies, and money mules. We will take a look at data from our investigation in which we tracked tens of thousands of websites and collected and reported almost two and a half thousand Australian bank accounts to provide an insight into the operation and complexity of the fraud and present some suggestions on what is needed to reduce this type of fraud.

West African fraud is a complex, evolving ecosystem that causes immense harm globally and locally. Combating it requires a deep understanding of the anatomy, and the cultural, economic, and structural factors that allow it to thrive.