The modern scam is similar to the
Spanish Prisoner scam that dates back to the late 18th century.
[14][15] In that con, businessmen were contacted by an individual allegedly trying to smuggle someone who is connected to a wealthy family out of a prison in Spain. In exchange for assistance, the scammer promised to share money with the victim in exchange for a small amount of money to bribe prison guards.
[16]
One variant of the scam may date back to the 18th or 19th century, as a very similar letter, entitled "The Letter from Jerusalem." This is illustrated in the memoirs of
Eugène François Vidocq, a former French criminal and
private investigator.
[17] Another variant of the scam, dating back to ca. 1830, appears very similar to emails today: "Sir, you will doubtlessly be astonished to be receiving a letter from a person unknown to you, who is about to ask a favour from you..." and goes on to talk of a casket containing 16,000 francs in gold and the diamonds of a late marchioness.
[18]