Confidence tricksters and fraudsters are individuals who use deception and manipulation to obtain something of value from their victims. Confidence tricksters often use psychological tactics to gain the trust and confidence of their victims, while fraudsters often use false representations or promises to deceive their victims.
Examples of confidence tricks include schemes such as the “pigeon drop,” where a person approaches a victim with a large sum of money and a story about why they can’t keep it, then asks the victim to help them and split the money. In reality, the money is fake, and the con artist steals the victim’s money in exchange for the fake money.
Examples of fraud may include scams such as the “Nigerian prince” email scam, where the perpetrator sends an email promising a large sum of money in exchange for the victim’s assistance in transferring the funds. In reality, the email is a scam, and the victim is asked to provide personal information or transfer money to the fraudster, who then disappears with the funds.
Both confidence tricksters and fraudsters often target vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those who are financially or emotionally vulnerable. It is important to be aware of these types of scams and to exercise caution when approached with offers that seem too good to be true.
If you suspect that you have been the victim of a confidence trickster or fraudster, it is important to report it to the authorities and to seek legal advice if necessary.
© Linda C J Turner
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