Search results for: psychology

Cybercriminal Profiles: Pig Butchering/Crypto Investment Scammers – 2024

Cybercriminal Profiles: Pig Butchering/Crypto Investment Scammers Understanding Cybercriminals Criminology - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Pig butchering scams are sophisticated, long-term schemes that rely heavily on social engineering, emotional manipulation, and the use of fake cryptocurrency platforms. These cybercriminals are patient, methodical, and adept at building trust with [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-10T18:50:16-04:00October 10th, 2024|Categories: ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, Cryptocurrency Scams, Insights, Investment Scams, Romance Scams & Relationship Scams, YouTube Video, ♦ CYBERCRIMINAL PROFILES, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE|Tags: Crypto Investment Scams, Cybercriminal, Pig Butchering Scams, scammers|

Lego Therapy For Scam Victims – 2023 [UPDATED 2024]

Lego Therapy For Scam Victims Helping Traumatized Scam Victims To Recover Recovery Psychology - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Lego Therapy is an innovative therapeutic approach that uses building with Lego bricks as a tool for emotional healing, particularly for trauma victims, including scam survivors. [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-10T04:31:04-04:00October 10th, 2024|Categories: ♦ SCAM VICTIM RECOVERY, 2023, 2024, Insights, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim Recovery, Self Help - Supporting Yourself|Tags: Helping Scam Victims, Lego Bricks, Lego System, Lego Therapy, Minfulness, scam victims, Self-Help Therapy, Traumatized Victims|

SCAM WARNING: Fake Therapy and Therapists – a Scam Targeting Traumatized Scam Victims – 2024

SCAM WARNING: Fake Therapy and Therapists - a Scam Targeting Traumatized Scam Victims Scammers Running Fake Therapy and Fake Therapist Services Now Target Individuals Who Have Already Fallen Victim to Other Scams! How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-08T03:07:58-04:00October 8th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Local Scammers, ♦ SCAMPEDIA: CATALOG OF SCAMS|Tags: Business Impersonation Scams, Fake Therapists, Fake Therapy, Follow-on Scams, Rescamming Victims, Scam Warning|

Situational Awareness and How Trauma Makes Scam Victims Less Safe – 2024

Situational Awareness and How Trauma Makes Scam Victims Less Safe How Scam Victims Need to Become More Observant and Develop Situational Awareness in Their Daily Life to Stay Safe! Scam Victim Psychology - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract To avoid fear in daily life, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-06T18:52:20-04:00October 5th, 2024|Categories: ♦ SCAM VICTIM RECOVERY, 2024, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Recovery Psychology, ♦ NEW SCAM VICTIMS|Tags: Observation, Personal Safety, Scam Victim, Situational Awareness, TRAUMA|

Ghana Scammers Money God Empire (“MGE”) [Updated 2024]

Ghana Scammers Money God Empire ("MGE") [Updated 2024] An Exploration into One of Ghana's Online Scammer Cultures How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-10-02T15:05:53-04:00October 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, 2018, 2024, AFRICAN SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Culture Of Scamming, Scammer Galleries & Collections, Scammer Rituals, Scammer Techniques & Methods, Scams & Magic, Special Reports|Tags: Ghana Scams, Ghanaian Scammer, MGE, Money God Empire, scambangers|

The Family of Scam Victims are Also Victims! Understanding How This Works in Families of Relationship Scam Victims – 2024

The Family of Scam Victims are Also Victims! Understanding How This Works in Families of Relationship Scam Victims Understanding Secondary Scam Victims: The Silent Trauma of Family Members Scam Victim Support - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Families of romance scam victims often become [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-28T22:24:37-04:00September 28th, 2024|Categories: ♦ FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS, 2024, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Married Scam Victims - Unintentional Internet Infidelity, Psychology of Scams, SCARS Official Videos, Victimology, YouTube Video, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS|Tags: Families of Victims, family members, Impact on Families, Psychology of Scams, scam victims, Secondary Victims, Vicarious Trauma|

Romance Scams – 2024 – An Overview

Romance Scams - 2024 - An Overview Understanding What Romance Scams Are and the Scammers Doing Them - an Overview for Scam Victims How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Romance scams involve criminals who use fake identities and emotional manipulation to [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-28T16:19:45-04:00September 28th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Romance Scams & Relationship Scams, SCARS Official Videos, YouTube Video, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: romance scammers, Romance Scams, scam victims|

Scam Victims – Preparing for the Next Scam Fraud or Cybercrime – 2024

Preparing for the Next Scam Fraud or Cybercrime Often Scam Victims are Scammed Multiple Times, But Preparing For the Next One Can Make All the Difference! Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-22T15:31:50-04:00September 22nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Cybercrime, Insights, Online Safety, Psychology of Scams, Scam Recidivism, Victim Vulnerability, ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: Cybercrimes, Preparedness, Scam Avoidance, Scam Victim Recovery, scam victims, Scams|

Scammer Manipulation Tool Box – 102 Ways Scammers Manipulate Scam Victims – 2024

Scammer Manipulation Tool Box - 102 Ways Scammers Manipulate Scam Victims A Catalog of Manipulative and Control Techniques Used by Scammers How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Scammers use a wide array of manipulation and control techniques to exploit their victims [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-09-19T17:53:23-04:00September 19th, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Scammer Techniques & Methods, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK|Tags: Control Techniques, Manipulation, Persuasion, Scam Psychology, scam victims, Scammer Techniques, social engineering|

Romance Scams – Common Characteristics of the Photos of Men & Women that Scammers Use to Lure their Scam Victims – 2024

Romance Scams - Common Characteristics of the Photos of Men & Women that Scammers Use to Lure their Scam Victims - 2024 Understanding some of the Psychology Behind the Scammer's Choices in Selecting their Stolen Photos Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article [...]

Helping Scam Victims Let Go of Collecting and Exposing Fake Profiles – 2024

Helping Scam Victims Let Go of Collecting and Exposing Fake Profiles Understanding the Obsessive-Compulsive Nature of Collecting and Exposing Fake Profiles Helping Scam Victims Understand the Harm they may be doing to Themselves by Obsessive-Compulsive activities Scam Victim Recovery Psychology - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-08-23T00:21:39-04:00August 23rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Anger & Aggression, For New Victims, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Internet Addictive Behaviors, Recovery Psychology, ♦ CRIMINOLOGY / VICTIMOLOGY, ♦ ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCAMS, ♦ NEW SCAM VICTIMS, ♦ SCAM VICTIM RECOVERY|Tags: Exposing Fake Profiles, Letting Go, Obsessive-Compulsive, Recovery Psychology, scam victims, Victim Behaviors, Victim Recovery|

Emotional Triggers – What Are They And How To Cope With Them – UPDATED 2024

Emotional Triggers What Are They And How To Cope With Them Scam Victim Recovery - A SCARS Insight Authors: • Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Originally Published: 2022 - Article Updated: 2024 [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-08-20T15:32:25-04:00August 20th, 2024|Categories: 2022, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights, Recovery Psychology, ♦ SCAM VICTIM RECOVERY|Tags: Emotional Trauma, Emotional Triggers, Psychology, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim Trauma, Trauma Responses, Victim Recovery|

Gold Bar Scam/Phone Scams – How Scams Work – 2024

Gold Bar Scam/Phone Scams Government Impersonators Telling Victims to Protect Their Money! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Enecyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Gold bar scams involve fraudsters posing as federal agents or government officials who deceive victims by claiming their financial assets are at risk due to identity theft. The [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-08-11T14:45:21-04:00August 11th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Elder Abuse Crimes, Government Impersonation, NORTH AMERICA SCAMS & SCAMMERS, Phone Scams, ♦ SCAM BASICS|Tags: Gold Bar Scam, Government Impersonation, How scams work, Phone Scams|

Scams & Magic Part 24 – Stage Magic Glossary – 2024

Scams & Magic - Stage Magic Glossary Part 24 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from other sources Article Abstract Stage magic involves a variety of terms that describe the different [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:30:17-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 23 – Restoration: Rebuilding – 2024

Scams & Magic - Restoration: Rebuilding Part 23 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract In both magic and scams, "Restoration" involves creating a compelling illusion where something that appears to be [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:30:30-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 22 – Transformation: Shaping Realities – 2024

Scams & Magic - Transformation: Shaping Realities Part 22 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Transformation: Shaping Realities in Magic and Scams" examines how magicians and scammers use the concept of [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:31:08-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 21 – The Vanish: Disappearance Acts – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Vanish: Disappearance Acts Part 21 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Vanish" is a technique used in both stage magic and scams to create a [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:31:45-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 20 – The Load: Strategic Placement – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Load: Strategic Placement Part 20 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Load: Strategic Placement in Magic and Scams" explores the technique of "loading," a crucial [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:32:25-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 19 – Forcing: Manipulating Choices – 2024

Scams & Magic - Forcing: Manipulating Choices Part 19 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Forcing: Manipulating Choices in Magic and Scams" examines how both magicians and scammers create the illusion [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:32:56-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 18 – The Turn: A Critical Moment – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Turn: A Critical Moment Part 18 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Turn: A Critical Moment in Magic and Scams" explores how both magicians and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:33:28-04:00August 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 17 – The Build-Up: Crafting Suspense and Anticipation – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Build-Up: Crafting Suspense and Anticipation Part 17 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Build-Up" in both magic and scams involves creating suspense and anticipation to [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:34:01-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 16 – The Setup or Pre-Show Work – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Setup or Pre-Show Work Part 16 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Setup or Pre-Show Work" is a critical phase in both magic and scams, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:34:31-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 15 – The Clean-Up: Final Acts – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Clean-Up: Final Acts Part 15 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract In both magic and scams, "The Clean-Up" refers to the final steps taken to remove [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:35:00-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 14 – The Controlled Reveal: Crafting Suspense – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Controlled Reveal: Crafting Suspense Part 14 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Controlled Reveal" is a technique used in both magic and scams to manipulate [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:35:30-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 13 – The Switch: Deception – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Switch: Deception Part 13 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Switch" is a technique used in both magic and scams to deceive and manipulate the [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:36:11-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 12 – The Misdirection Through Details – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Misdirection Through Details Part 12 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Misdirection Through Details" is a technique used in both magic and scams to overwhelm and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:36:41-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 11 – Sleight of Hand – 2024

Scams & Magic - Sleight of Hand Part 11 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Sleight of Hand" in both magic and scams involves skillful manipulation to create illusions. In magic, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:37:12-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 10 – Patter and Rapport – 2024

Scams & Magic - Patter and Rapport Part 10 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Patter and Rapport" in both magic and scams involve dialogue and connection to engage and manipulate [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:37:44-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 9 – The Setup and Anticipation – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Setup and Anticipation Part 9 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract In both magic and relationship scams, the "Setup and Anticipation" phase is pivotal for creating [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:38:17-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 8 – Other Stage Magic Techniques Used in Scams – 2024

Scams & Magic - Other Stage Magic Techniques Used in Scams Part 8 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Stage magic techniques are notably similar to those used in relationship scams, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:38:45-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 7 – The Time Pressure: Urgency as a Tool – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Time Pressure: Urgency as a Tool Part 7 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "Time Pressure" is a crucial tactic in both magic and scams that [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:39:16-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 6 – The Flourish: Adding Flair and Distraction – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Flourish: Adding Flair and Distraction Part 6 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Flourish" is a technique used in both magic and scams to add [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:39:46-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 5 – The Backstory Setup: Crafting Believable Narratives – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Backstory Setup: Crafting Believable Narratives Part 5 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The backstory setup is a vital technique in both magic and scams, designed to [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:40:14-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 4 – The Misdirection: A Key Element – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Misdirection: A Key Element Part 4 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Misdirection is a key technique in both magic and scams, designed to divert attention [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:40:45-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 3 – The Prestige: The Ultimate Revelation – 2024

Scams & Magic - The Prestige: The Ultimate Revelation Part 3 Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract "The Prestige" is the climactic moment in both magic and scams, where the magician [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:41:17-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 2 – How Relationship Scammers Use Techniques Similar to Magic Acts – 2024

Scams & Magic - How Relationship Scammers Use Techniques Similar to Magic Acts Understanding the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The psychological techniques used in stage magic and relationship scams share striking similarities, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-07-07T15:41:51-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Scams & Magic Part 1 – Understanding Financial Fraud Through The Lense Of Stage Magic Manipulation – 2024

Scams & Magic - Understanding Financial Fraud Through the Lense of Stage Magic Manipulation Introduction - Part 1 An Introduction to the Methods Used by Both Scammers and Magicians to Deceive Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The SCARS Institute's analysis of [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-08-03T00:39:10-04:00August 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Scams & Magic, Victimization|Tags: Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scams, Stage Magic|

Santa Claus – The Greatest Achievement Of Manipulation And Social Engineering In History? – Updated 2024

Santa Claus The Greatest Achievement Of Manipulation And Social Engineering In History An Example of How Corporate Manipulation and Social Engineering is Used on Us All to Change the World! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from the History Channel and other sources Originally Published: 2009 [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-07-25T04:52:04-04:00July 25th, 2024|Categories: Psychology of Scams, 2021, Insights|Tags: Haddon Sundblom, Human Control, Manipulation, Saint Nikolaas, Santa Claus, Sinter Klaas, social engineering, St. Nicolas|

SCARS Anti-Scam ToolBox – Resources for Every Scam Victim/Survivor – UPDATED 2026

SCARS Anti-Scam ToolBox UPDATED 2026 Resources for Every Scam Victim/Survivor Tools to help you avoid scams, fraud, and cybercrime are crucial in today's Internet age where these threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. These tools, including antivirus software, secure password managers, two-factor authentication, and phishing filters, provide essential layers of protection by detecting and blocking malicious activities before they cause harm. These tools help safeguard personal and financial information, [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2026-04-21T12:01:41-04:00June 24th, 2024|Categories: ♦ CYBERSECURITY, 2024, Article Catalog, Cyber Basics, Cybercrime, Cybersecurity Information & Training, ♦ ONLINE SAFETY, ♦ SCARS TOOLBOX|Tags: Anti-Scam Tools, Cybersecurity, Resources, SCARS ToolBox, Tools|

Psychic Scams – Exploiting Scam Victims’ Cognitive Biases And Magical Thinking – 2024

Psychic Scams - Exploiting Scam Victims' Cognitive Biases and Magical Thinking Our Own Cognitive Biases and Belief in the Supernatural make us Prime Targets for Scammers! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Psychic scams, where fraudsters claim supernatural abilities for profit, exploit people's belief in the [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-06-16T18:19:03-04:00June 16th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Financial Fraud & Scams, Insights, Psychology of Scams, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS|Tags: Cognitive Biases, Fortune Teller Fraud, Gypsies, Magical Thinking, Psychic Scams, Supernatural Beliefs, Victim Vulnerabilities|

Sending A Letter To Your Scammer – Getting The Last Word – 2024

Sending A Letter To Your Scammer - Getting The Last Word! Most Scam Victims Wish They Could Have A Last Word! This Will Allow That Safely! Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Article Abstract Sending a letter to your scammer can offer emotional closure without direct confrontation. This letter was crafted to achieve specific psychological effects, helps victims express their pain and reclaim power. It’s not about telling your [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-06-08T09:50:09-04:00June 8th, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim Recovery|Tags: Last Word, Letter, Saying How You Feel, Scammer|

Phatic Expressions – A Scammer Manipulation Technique – 2024

Phatic Expressions - A Scammer Manipulation Technique A Communication Technique Used by Scammers to More Easily Lure In and Groom Scam Victims Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Article Abstract Phatic expressions is a communication style used primarily for social engagement rather than conveying information. These expressions, such as greetings, small talk, and polite phrases, play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining social bonds, ensuring conversational flow, and [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-06-03T12:41:14-04:00June 3rd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Scammer Techniques & Methods, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE|Tags: Greetings, Grooming, Manipulation, Phatic Expressions, Phatic Language, scam victims, Small Talk|

Breadcrumbing – A Scammer Manipulation Technique – 2024

Breadcrumbing - A Scammer Manipulation Technique One of the Many Manipulative Techniques Relationship Scammers use to Create Control over Scam Victims Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Breadcrumbing is a manipulative tactic used by scammers to build anticipation and desire during the [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-06-02T01:16:27-04:00June 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Psychology of Scams, Romance Scams & Relationship Scams, Scammer Techniques & Methods, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE|Tags: Breadcrumbing, Breadcrumbs, Communication, Manipulation, scam victims, Scammer Technique|

Fake Missing Persons Money Scam – How Scam Work – 2024

Fake Missing Persons Money Scam An Emotionally Charged Scam that Tugs at Scam Victim's Heartstrings! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Originally Published: 2021 - Article Updated: 2024 Article Abstract The missing person scam is a sophisticated fraud tactic that preys on people's kindness [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-31T14:16:41-04:00May 31st, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Financial Fraud & Scams, Insights|Tags: Cognitive Bias, Manipulation, Missing Person Scam, Scam Victim|

Considering A Lawsuit Against A Transnational Organized Criminal Scammers – 2024

Considering A Lawsuit Against A Transnational Organized Criminal Scammers Unfortunately, When Desperation Strikes Any Idea Sounds Good Money Recovery - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Victims of trust-based relationship scams, such as romance or crypto investment scams, often find themselves in desperate situations after realizing [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-30T04:52:14-04:00May 30th, 2024|Categories: ♦ MONEY RECOVERY, 2024, Impact of Scams on Victims, Insights|Tags: Desperation, Hiring an Attorney, Lawsuit, Litigation, Money Recovery, scam victims|

Online Grooming In All Of Its Forms – 2024

Online Grooming In All Of Its Forms It is Important for Everyone to Understand this Critical Phase in Almost All Scams Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Online grooming and online manipulation and control are related but distinct concepts. Grooming involves predators [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-20T22:07:16-04:00May 20th, 2024|Categories: ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS, 2024, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Psychology of Scams, ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK|Tags: Grooming, Manipulation, Online Predators, Psychology of Scams, scam victims, Scams, Victims|

Scam Alert: SEO Poisoning & Typosquatting Scams – 2024

Scam Alert: SEO Poisoning & Typosquatting Scams Scammers Try to Lure You Into Their Fake Websites through Social Engineering in Search Results! How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Author: • SCARS Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract SEO poisoning and typosquatting are tactics used by scammers to manipulate search engine results, making their malicious websites appear legitimate to unsuspecting users. Exploiting [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-09T00:35:52-04:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Business / Institution / Government Impersonation & Fakes, Cybercrime, Fake Websites & Social Media Pages, Insights, Online Safety, Scammer Techniques & Methods, Technology Of Scamming, ♦ CYBERSECURITY, ♦ SCAM WARNINGS & ALERTS|Tags: Scam Alert, Search Results, SEO Poisoning, social engineering, Typo Squatting, Typosquatting, Website Scams|

Don’t Call Scammers Names – You Are Personalizing It And Making It Harder To Recover – Please Just Stop It! – 2024 [UPDATED]

Don't Call Scammers Names You Are Personalizing It And Making It Harder To Recover Please Just Stop It! You Are Not Hurting Them, You Are Hurting Yourself and Other Victims! Recovery Psychology - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Originally published in 2018 - updated in 2024 Article Abstract When individuals resort [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-05-02T11:19:51-04:00May 2nd, 2024|Categories: ♦ SCAM VICTIM RECOVERY, 2018, 2024, Anger & Aggression, Insights, Misinformation About Scams, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim Recovery|Tags: Calling Names, Calling Scammers Names, Psychology of Scam, Recovery Psychology, scammers|

The Art Of Deception: The Fundamental Principals Of Successful Deceptions – 2024

The Art Of Deception: The Fundamental Principals Of Successful Deceptions There are Universal Principles that a Deception Needs to be Successful How Scams Work - A SCARS Insight Authors: • Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-04-19T09:06:33-04:00April 19th, 2024|Categories: ♦ HOW SCAMS WORK, 2024, Cryptocurrency Scams, Grooming & Manipulation, Insights, Investment Scams, Psychology of Scams, Romance Scams & Relationship Scams, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE|Tags: Cognitive Bias, Deception, Fraud, Fundamental Principals, Scams|

Confronting Scammers & The Consequences Of What Can Follow 2019 [UPDATED 2024]

Confronting Scammers & The Consequences Of What Can Follow It Is A Bad Idea To Confront Them When You Catch On To Them! What Happens When You Confront Your Scammer? Only Bad Things! Psychology of Scams - A SCARS Insight Author: • Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth - Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Originally Published: 2019 - Article Updated: 2024 [...]

SCARS Institute Editorial Team2024-04-17T01:32:32-04:00April 17th, 2024|Categories: ♦ NEW SCAM VICTIMS, Guides, Scam Baiting, ♦ HOW SCAMMERS OPERATE, ♦ PSYCHOLOGY OF SCAMS|Tags: Confronting Fakes, Exposing Scammers, Flip Scam, Guilt Scam, Scam Confrontation, Scammer Accusation, Scammer Confruntation, Scammer Retaliation, Threatening Scammers|

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