In this scam the fraudster claims to be a wealthy businessman who has been diagnosed with cancer, has fallen ill, and does not have long to live.
The fraudster claims he has lived a sinful and selfish life, and now that death approaches, he wants God to give him a second chance.
He plans to achieve this by donating all his money – millions of dollars – to charities around the world.
The fraudster is too ill to do this himself, and when he asked his family for assistance they stole the money he sent for themselves.
The victim is asked if they can help distribute the money to charities in their home country, and is promised $1 million as a token of thanks.
Once initial contact is made, the victim is then told the money is frozen in an account, for example, and a small fee must be paid for it to be released.
Other requests for money may also be sent, such as the fraudster telling the victim he has to open a bank account overseas or register with a charity organisation.