Upfront fee
You're told to pay a fee first to get a job, prize, loan, visa, or release of funds.
Why it matters
Paying before receiving anything is the core of advance-fee fraud - the 'thing' never arrives.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: Pay the registration/processing fee to start.
Why scammers use this
A small upfront payment tests your compliance and is pure profit for the scammer.
What to do
- Stop and verify who you're really paying through an official channel.
- Never pay a fee to receive money, a refund, a prize, or to 'release' funds.
- If money moved, contact your bank or payment provider immediately.
What not to do
- Don't pay to receive money or 'unlock' funds.
- Don't trust payment screenshots as proof.
- Don't pay via gift cards, wire, or crypto to someone unverified.
How to verify safely
Confirm any payment inside your official banking or payment app; receiving money never requires you to pay, scan, or enter a PIN.
Scams where this appears
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Related scam-type hubs
Emergency guides
Related terms
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Check a messageFrequently asked questions
Is an upfront fee ever normal?
Be very cautious. Legitimate jobs, prizes, and recoveries don't require you to pay first to a stranger.