BUSINESSES are being warned to watch out for an e-mail scam which originates from African countries.
The e-mails are alleged to originate from the Ministry of Mining in Pretoria, South Africa, and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
They say the company needs to transfer money into local companies and request bank account numbers and other details.
They claim the business would get 25 per cent of the money deposited by helping out those organisations.
Michael Welsh, trading standards manager at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "The aim behind these e-mails is to get into a business's bank account and remove money.
"These cons from Africa have been around for some time.
"Someone must be falling for them or the rogues behind it would not be continuing with the scam."
Anyone with any concerns can contact Mr Welsh on (01429) 523362.
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