Criminal Threats to Britain: “419” Scams Continue to Cause Losses

A Significant Problem Remains

A new report from the National Criminal Intelligence Service (NCIS) reveals that criminal threats to Britain remain a significant problem. The latest annual assessment shows that losses due to so-called “419” scams, in which victims are tricked into handing over money to fraudsters, have reached staggering levels.

Staggering Losses

According to NCIS figures, reported losses due to 419 scams have risen sharply since 2002. In fact, the organization received information about losses of more than £8 million in just one year. But these figures only scratch the surface of the problem. Many victims do not report their experiences to the authorities, and others may be too embarrassed or ashamed to come forward.

Phishing Attacks on the Rise

A British bank has reported a sharp rise in “phishing” attacks, in which fraudsters use fake emails to trick customers into revealing sensitive information such as account details and PINs. The number of phishing attacks identified by the bank grew from under 50 in February to almost 400 in April, resulting in losses to customers of more than £67,000.

Increased Accessibility of Phishing Software

The bank attributes this increase to the increased accessibility of phishing software on the internet. An official at the bank predicts that Nigerians will become increasingly involved in other types of electronic scams as “Trojan” software becomes more widely available.

Nigerian Involvement

Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) receives thousands of complaints about email scams every day, although it claims that the number has been greatly reduced since it began pursuing fraudsters. Many fraudulent emails are now sent from other West African countries and European countries to disguise their Nigerian origins.

International Scope

In the US, an organization called IC3, set up by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National White Collar Crime Center, has reported on internet frauds. Its 2004 annual report shows that “Nigerian letter frauds” represented only a tiny fraction of total fraud complaints, but tended to be among the highest-value crimes in terms of losses per victim.

Estimated Losses

Another organization, Ultrascan, estimates that the total losses to British companies and individuals in 2005 were £520 million, second only to the US at £720 million. It also estimated that 20 scam rings comprising dozens of members were active in the UK.

International Criminal Groups

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) says that “Nigerian Criminal Enterprises” are some of the most aggressive and expansionist international criminal groups, primarily engaged in drug trafficking and financial frauds. Their most profitable activities include trafficking of heroin and cocaine into Europe and the United States.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the British authorities may not keep a formal log of victims’ reports of Nigerian advance fee frauds, it is clear that these scams continue to cause significant losses and harm to individuals and businesses in Britain.