We’ve just updated the Common Internet Scams page with a new and unusual scam that’s recently been seen around the world. Known as the “hit man” or “Assassin” scam, this email essentially claims that the senders are going to kill you – contact them immediately if you want to live.

We suspect the obvious – contact them and they will ask for money. Ignore the email. However, if you do feel threatened, contact your local law enforcement agency. An example of these emails is below:

Subject: You have been betrayed by your Friend

You have been betrayed!!! Its a pity that this how your life is goingto come to an end as your death had already been paid for by someone who is very close to you from all investigations.
I have ordered 3 (three) of my men to monitor every move of you and make sure you are not out of sight till the date of your assassination.
According to the report I gets, you seem to be innocent about what you have been accuse but I have no business with that, so thats why am contacting you to know if truly you are innocent and how much you value your life.
Get back to me if you sure want to live on, ignore this mail only if you feel its a joke or just a threat.
Dont forget your days on earth are numbered, so you have the chance to live if only you will comply with me.
WARNING: Tell no one about this mail to you because he or she might just be the person who wants you dead, and if that happens, I will be aware and am going to make sure you DIE instantly.
I will give you every detail of where to be and how to take any actions be it legal or illegal, thats only when I read from you.
You need to stay calm and act unaware of this situation and follow instructions because any move you make that is suspicious; you will DIE as your days are numbered.