Released: December 02, 2024

When scammers weaponize your emotions

Source: Michelle Singletary, Washington Post (Paid Registration)

The scammers quickly assess the situation, peppering the victim with questions to feel them out and extract information that could be used against them. They sample for psychological triggers — the desire to develop an intimate connection.  They also capitalize on their fears and worries.

There’s a common misconception that financial fraud victims are uneducated, lonely, isolated, or lacking common sense — none of which applies to countless victims. There’s also an assumption that seniors are more vulnerable to fraud because of deteriorating cognitive skills. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, people in their 20s are scammed at higher rates than older Americans. This is partly because they spend more time online, where there is simply more exposure to fake shopping sites, bogus job offers and investment scams.

 

Read Full Article: When scammers weaponize your emotions