Scammers have been around as long as mankind has existed. They have learned to play on our weaknesses so skillfully that sometimes even the most cautious and knowledgeable people fall victim to them. Let’s find out why this happens and what mechanisms of deception lie at the heart of their tricks.
Emotions take over
Most often scammers play on our feelings. They use fear, greed, hope or sympathy to make us act quickly, without thinking.
For example, a call from a “bank” telling you that someone is trying to withdraw money from your account causes instant panic. On emotions you are ready to fulfill any instructions just to save your money. Or another case: an offer to quickly earn a large sum of money through investments. The hope for a quick income turns off logic, and a person transfers money without checking the company.
Lack of knowledge
Not every one of us understands financial schemes, technology or even basic internet security. Scammers take advantage of this. They create fake websites, copy logos of well-known companies, send professionally composed letters.
If a person does not know how to distinguish an official site from a fake or how to check a broker’s license, he becomes an easy prey. Besides, many people do not go into details: they saw a “trusted person”, a beautiful advertisement, and that is enough to believe.
Psychological pressure
Scammers are masters of manipulation. They do everything to make you feel urgency and do not have time to think. “There is a special offer valid only today”, ‘only two seats left’, ‘if you don’t take action, your account will be blocked’ – such phrases cause anxiety and the desire to do something immediately.
They also use “authority.” They introduce themselves as employees of banks, law enforcement agencies or other organizations that inspire confidence. Against the background of stress, people rarely ask themselves how to check whether this is a real employee.
Trustworthiness and belief in good things
Many of us are used to trusting people. It’s normal, we want to believe that the world is basically benevolent. However, scammers use this gullibility to their advantage.
Fake reviews, professional websites and “success guarantees” create the illusion of safety. Some even send fake documents that look quite official.
Another reason is the belief in luck. For example, if a scammer tells you that you have “won a large sum of money”, it sounds too tempting to refuse. And a person, without thinking, transfers the “winnings transfer fee”, losing his money.
Self-confidence
Many people think they are smart enough not to fall for the tricks. This is what makes them vulnerable.
Such people may ignore warnings, fail to check information, thinking, “This is not about me. I know how to spot a scam.” Alas, scammers often catch just such victims, creating scenarios that look quite plausible.
How do you protect yourself?
- Think on a cooler head. If you get a call with a “threat” or “favorable offer,” don’t rush to act. Take a break, think about the situation.
- Verify the information. Find out who is behind the offer. Real companies always have licenses, transparent contacts and good reviews.
- Don’t trust terms and conditions that are too good. If something looks too tempting, it is most likely a scam.
- Don’t be afraid to say no. Scammers often pressure you to feel uncomfortable saying no. Don’t give in.
Scammers are smart, but you can be smarter. The key is to not trust your first emotions and always verify information. Remember, your money and data are only in your hands.
