A new wave of 419 advance‑fee fraud emails is circulating, falsely claiming to come from Woodforest National Bank and signed by “Mr. James Dreibelbis.” The message promises an impossible $36 million ATM card, demands a $100 fee via cryptocurrency or gift cards, and pressures the recipient with a fabricated four‑week “expiration.” This scam closely mirrors previously documented Woodforest impersonation frauds, including those catalogued in major 419 databases.
Good day Sir/Madam Iam Mr. James Dreibelbis from Wood Forest National Bank Of Texas. I’m here to inform you that your ATM Card of $36 Million dollars only has been signed and endorsed as scheduled, has been deposited through our bank to your local bank or delivered directly to your home address at a shot for the security purpose. However, I understand that you have only four weeks to receive your ATM Card because it will expire in four weeks time but I would really appreciate it if you could be able to receive it before then and it will be more valuable for you if you really receive it. However your ATM Card could cost you $100 only and nothing else to hide. Therefore you are requested to send the fee only by Bitcoin Wallet, Apple Card, Steam Wallet. I will forward you your ATM Tracking number delivery to enable you monitor the arrival of the ATM card without any further delay. Also remember to get back to me with your full details to avoid wrong delivery. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve your banking needs. Yours sincerely, Mr. James Dreibelbis. Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer of Wood forest National Bank And Director of Woodforest National BankEMAIL;;wnationalbank26@gmail.com
What the Scam Claims
The email arrives with the subject line “Remains Blessed” and is sent from a Gmail address (thomasja647@gmail.com) to undisclosed recipients. It claims:
You have an ATM card loaded with $36 million
The card is “signed and endorsed” and ready for delivery
You must pay $100 via Bitcoin, Apple Card, or Steam Wallet
You must urgently provide your personal details
The sender is “Mr. James Dreibelbis, Chairman & CEO of Woodforest National Bank”
A second fake email address is provided: wnationalbank26@gmail.com
Every element of this message is fraudulent.
Why This Email Is 100% a Scam
Woodforest National Bank does not send unsolicited ATM cards or funds
Legitimate Woodforest communications come from official domains such as @woodforest.com, not Gmail or disposable addresses. Fraud alerts from the bank are sent from verified channels like CardAlert@woodforest.com or SMS short code 96475.
“ATM cards loaded with millions” are a known 419 scam pattern
419 databases show numerous cases of scammers impersonating Woodforest executives—including fake versions of James Dreibelbis—to promise large payments via ATM cards or cashier’s checks. These scams always demand upfront fees.
The $36 million claim is impossible
No bank issues ATM cards containing tens of millions of dollars. No bank “endorses” ATM cards. No ATM card “expires in four weeks.”
The payment methods are deliberately untraceable
Bitcoin, Apple gift cards, and Steam Wallet codes are irreversible, making them ideal for scammers.
The email uses urgency and fear
The “four‑week expiration” is a classic pressure tactic designed to override skepticism.
Grammar, formatting, and tone are unprofessional
Real banks do not send emails with broken English, religious greetings (“Remains Blessed”), or vague threats about expiration.
The sender identity is fabricated
The real Woodforest CEO does not use Gmail, nor does he send mass emails promising multimillion‑dollar windfalls. Scammers frequently steal the names of real executives to appear credible.
How This Scam Fits Into Larger Fraud Trends
This email is part of a long‑running family of advance‑fee scams that:
Promise large inheritances, lottery winnings, or “compensation funds”
Impersonate banks, government agencies, or CEOs
Demand small upfront fees to “release” the funds
Use fake tracking numbers, fake legal documents, and fake bank codes
Target seniors, vulnerable individuals, and anyone unfamiliar with 419 fraud patterns
Woodforest National Bank impersonation scams are specifically common, with multiple variants documented over the years.
What To Do If You Receive This Email
Do not reply
Do not send money
Do not provide personal information
Do not click any links
Report the email to your local cybercrime authority
If you are concerned, contact Woodforest National Bank directly using verified contact information—not anything in the scam email
Woodforest’s legitimate fraud department can be reached through official channels listed on their website.
Conclusion
This “Remains Blessed” ATM card message is a textbook example of a 419 advance‑fee scam impersonating a U.S. bank. The combination of fake authority, impossible financial claims, pressure tactics, and untraceable payment methods makes it immediately recognizable as fraud. Stay vigilant, share this warning with others, and report any similar messages to help reduce victimization.
Rae Stonehouse is a Canadian author, publisher, and advocate committed to exposing publishing scams and supporting writers through education and community. As the creator of Authors Against Scammers, Rae provides clear, practical guidance to help writers protect their work, their money, and their peace of mind. His books and resources reflect a lifelong dedication to empowering others through knowledge, clarity, and real‑world experience.
