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‘I Just Want To Forget It’ – Denial & Avoidance Are Natural But Will Not Help Scam Victims On Their Path To Recovery From Scams – 2024

‘I Just Want To Forget It’

Denial & Avoidance Are Natural But Will Not Help Scam Victims On Their Path To Recovery From Scams

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims often express a desire to forget or live in peace as a means of escaping the pain and turmoil caused by their traumatic experience. While understandable, these sentiments can lead to denial and avoidance, hindering the recovery process.

Denial and avoidance prevent victims from acknowledging the severity of the scam’s impact, addressing their emotional distress, and seeking necessary support and resources. Living in denial also leaves victims vulnerable to prolonged emotional distress, impaired coping mechanisms, re-victimization, and hindered recovery.

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2024-04-05T01:47:39-04:00April 5th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , , , |
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Susceptibility To Deception/Scams/Fraud With Victims Who Also Suffer From Mental Disorders – 2024

Susceptibility To Deception/Scams/Fraud With Victims Who Also Suffer From Mental Disorders

Helping Scam Victims and their Families Better Understand the Impact of Deception, Scams, or Fraud on those with Mental Disorders

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Based on research by the United States National Institute of Mental Health

About This Article

Individuals with diagnosed mental disorders are not only profoundly susceptible to deception but can be even more vulnerable to scams or fraud. Mental disorders can significantly impact cognitive functions and decision-making abilities, potentially increasing susceptibility to scams.

This article examines the relationship between the top ten common mental disorders and vulnerability to deception, scams, and fraud, emphasizing affected brain functions. While it serves as Read More …

2024-04-04T11:58:48-04:00April 4th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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FTC New Impersonation Scams Rule Effective Today – 2024

FTC New Impersonation Scams Rule Effective Today

Government taking action Against Scams!

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Federal Trade Commission

About This Article

The FTC’s new rule targeting government and business impersonation scams takes effect today, April 1st, 2024, aiming to combat the soaring losses reported by consumers, which surpassed $1.1 billion last year alone.

The rule addresses the most common tactics employed by scammers, such as fake account security alerts and phony subscription renewals, and highlights the rise in text and email-based scams alongside declining phone calls. Notably, bank transfers and cryptocurrency payments have become the predominant methods used by victims, prompting the FTC to propose stronger measures, including prohibiting the impersonation of individuals and facilitating scams.

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2024-04-02T01:09:45-04:00April 2nd, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team, U.S. Federal Trade Commission|Tags: , , , , , |
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The Laws Of War Must Apply In Cyberspace – A Cyberwarfare Insight – 2024

The Laws Of War Must Apply In Cyberspace

A Cyberwarfare Insight

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Article by: Johanna Weaver, Director, ANU Tech Policy Design Centre, Australian National University
•  Portions by the International Committee of the Red Cross
Article Originally Published: October 25, 2023 – Used With Permission

About This Article

Governments and hackers alike are increasingly acknowledging the necessity of applying the laws of war to cyberspace. Traditionally, international humanitarian law has regulated conduct in armed conflict to safeguard civilians and minimize suffering.

However, with the emergence of cyberattacks and online information operations, a new battleground has evolved, exemplified by Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the Israel–Hamas conflict. Contrary to the misconception of cyberspace being lawless, there is a global consensus that existing laws of war are applicable online.

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2024-04-01T12:25:03-04:00April 1st, 2024|Categories: • CYBERWAR & CYBERWARFARE, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, GUEST AUTHORS, SCARS Editorial Team|Tags: , , , , |
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China Encourages Armed Offensive Against Myanmar Over Slave Scam Centres – 2024

China Encourages Armed Offensive Against Myanmar Over Slave Scam Centres

At least one country recognizes that the fight against scamming requires military intervention.

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime

About This Article

In response to Myanmar’s failure to address the proliferation of online scams, China lends support to an armed offensive against the military junta in Myanmar.

Named Operation 1027, the offensive was executed by the Three Brotherhood Alliance, severely challenging the Tatmadaw’s control.

China’s dissatisfaction stemmed from the exploitation of Chinese citizens by scam centers in Myanmar. Despite calling for a ceasefire post-operation, China prioritized the handover of scam suspects over pressuring armed groups to cease operations.

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2024-04-01T10:18:42-04:00April 1st, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, MYANMAR, SCARS Editorial Team, United Nations|Tags: , , , , |
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Scam Victims Avoid Or Escape The Aftermath Of Scams – How Denial And Distraction Avoid Confronting Reality – 2024

Scam Victims Avoid or Escape the Aftermath of Scams – How Denial and Distraction Avoid Confronting Reality

Helping Scam Victims Understand Negative Behaviors that can affect their recovery

Authors:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims often resort to denial, avoidance, and distractions as coping mechanisms to escape the harsh reality of their situation after discovering they have been scammed. Denial allows victims to bury their feelings and pretend as though nothing has happened, shielding themselves from further emotional distress.

They may minimize the severity of the scam or deflect responsibility onto external factors to absolve themselves of guilt and shame. Avoidance behaviors involve changing the subject, avoiding discussions about the scam, or even refusing to acknowledge its existence.

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2024-03-31T05:06:56-04:00March 30th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , , , , , |
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Comparisons – The Dangers Of Scam Victims Comparing Their Suffering To Others – 2024

Comparisons – the Dangers of Scam Victims Comparing Their Suffering to Others

Comparing One Person’s Pain to another is a Form of Resentment, and it can be very Dangerous Psychologically for Scam Victims

Understanding Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims can often compare their suffering or victimization to others for validation, understanding, coping, a sense of community, and advocacy. However, this comparison can lead to resentment and envy, fueled by cognitive biases such as relative deprivation, negative contrast effect, and social comparison bias.

Resentment arises from perceived injustices and activates brain regions associated with emotional processing and social cognition. Envy, on the other hand, stems from feelings of inadequacy and activates neural Read More …

2024-03-29T23:04:30-04:00March 29th, 2024|Categories: Tim McGuinness PhD, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , , |
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Scam Victims And The 9 Circles Of Hell After The Scam Ends – 2024

Scam Victims And The 9 Circles Of Hell After The Scam Ends

The Challenges that Scam Victims Face after They End their Scam/Fraud

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Updated 2024 – Originally published 2023 on RomanceScamsNOW.com

About This Article

“Scam Victims Welcome To Hell: An Insight into Recovery” delves into the harrowing journey of scam victims, likening their post-scam experience to Dante’s Circles of Hell. Drawing parallels between Dante’s Inferno and the psychological turmoil of scam recovery, the narrative navigates through each circle, mirroring the victim’s emotional descent.

From the initial shock of Limbo to the burning anger of Violence, victims grapple with denial, greed, and treachery. Each circle reflects a facet of victim psychology, from the insatiable need for answers in Gluttony to the treacherous allure of returning to scam tactics in Fraud.

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2024-03-28T15:53:33-04:00March 28th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , , |
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Transference And Emotional Danger After The Scam – 2024

Transference And Emotional Danger After The Scam

Understanding The Emotional Transference That Can Happen After The Scam Ends

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Updated 2024 – Originally published on RomanceScamsNOW.com 2019

About This Article

The article delves into the psychological concept of transference, particularly as it relates to scam victims, outlining its role in hindering recovery.

Transference, an unconscious process redirecting emotions and expectations from past relationships onto current individuals, emerges prominently in scam contexts. Victims often develop deep emotional bonds with fabricated personas, later struggling to accept the deception and projecting feelings onto innocent individuals, such as those whose photos were misappropriated.

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2024-03-29T23:44:01-04:00March 28th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, VIDEO / AUDIO|Tags: , , , , |
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Helping Scam Victims Understand The Social Isolation Risks After A Relationship Scam – 2024

Helping Scam Victims Understand The Social Isolation Risks After A Relationship Scam

Understanding the Risks to Scam Victims after the Scam Ends!

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Originally published on RomanceScamsNOW.com in 2021

About This Article

The emergence of romance scams not only wreaks financial havoc but also plunges victims into profound social isolation. Throughout and after the scam, individuals often opt for self-imposed seclusion, severing ties with loved ones as they grapple with feelings of embarrassment, remorse, and apprehension of condemnation.

This isolation exacts a toll on mental well-being, exacerbating sensations of solitude, apprehension, and despondency. Scammers employ manipulation tactics to curtail victims’ social interactions, intensifying their isolation and reinforcing dominance. Even post-scam, victims contend with emotional anguish, compounding their inclination to retreat from social bonds.

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2024-03-29T23:45:36-04:00March 27th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , |
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Investment Scam Losses Continue To Rise In Japan – More Than 50% Year Over Year – 2024

Investment Scam Losses Continue To Rise In Japan – More Than 50% Year Over Year

The Rate of Fake Investment Scam Victimization is Growing at a rate of over 50% per year!

An Investment Scam Victim’s Story

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions YOL

About This Article

The surge in investment scams worldwide, but particularly in Japan, including fake crypto and regular investment schemes, reflects a global trend of scammers adapting their tactics to target unsuspecting victims.

With losses totaling in the tens of millions of yen, victims like Mitsuyoshi Yamamoto are left devastated by the allure of promised profits and sophisticated scam techniques. These scams often involve impersonating famous investors on social media platforms, enticing victims with promises of high returns and minimal risk.

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2024-03-26T08:40:39-04:00March 26th, 2024|Categories: • VICTIM'S STORY, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, JAPAN, SCARS Editorial Team|Tags: , , , |
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Substance Abuse Susceptibility And Scam Victims – 2024

Substance Abuse Susceptibility And Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand the Connection to Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism After the Scam

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Trauma, such as falling victim to scams, can lead individuals to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs as a means of coping with the profound emotional distress and upheaval caused by their experiences. The psychological toll of scams, including feelings of shame, guilt, and betrayal, can exacerbate underlying mental health issues, making individuals more susceptible to substance abuse.

In a support group setting, several strategies can be implemented to better help scam victims with substance abuse or to prevent it altogether. These include psychoeducation about the link Read More …

2024-03-24T12:01:53-04:00March 24th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • SCAM VICTIM HEALTH, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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‘Mental Defeat’ – The Unique Condition Of Giving Up – 2024

‘Mental Defeat’ – The Unique Condition Of Giving Up

A Complete Breakdown of Resilience – Beyond Denial and Resignation

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

In the face of overwhelming adversity, mental defeat can be a profound human response, marking a breakdown in resilience and coping mechanisms. Whether triggered by encountering a superior force, falling victim to a scam, or experiencing betrayal, the shock of defeat can lead individuals to completely give up.

This reaction stems from our primal instincts and emotional responses, often leaving us feeling powerless and overwhelmed. The freeze response, similar to encountering a predator in the wild, can cause individuals to assume subservience, lasting far longer than the initial threat.

In Read More …

2024-03-24T07:51:33-04:00March 24th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , , |
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The Uniqueness Of Scam Victims Or Fraud Victims – 2024

The Uniqueness Of Scam Victims Or Fraud Victims

Why Scam Victims are different than other type of Crime Victims

Authors:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims, distinct from other crime victims, face unique challenges spanning psychological, financial, educational, technological, and social realms.

Manipulated over extended periods, they endure deep emotional turmoil, including betrayal and shame. Financially, they suffer massive losses, often leading to homelessness and credit damage. Their vulnerability stems from a knowledge gap, as scams exploit intricate tactics victims fail to recognize.

Perpetrators wield sophisticated methods like grooming and coercion, further complicating victims’ recovery. Despite technological complexities and stigma, law enforcement often lacks adequate training, exacerbating victims’ struggles for justice.

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2024-03-21T20:01:06-04:00March 21st, 2024|Categories: • VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , , , |
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NACHA Changes Credit-Push ACH Payments Rules To Fight Scams & Fraud – 2024

NACHA Changes ACH Credit-Push Payments Rules To Fight Scams & Fraud

Placing More Responsibility on the Financial Services Sector to Police Scams & Fraud

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  NACHA

About This Article

Nacha members have endorsed rules to combat fraud, including business email compromise (BEC), leveraging credit-push payments. These rules mandate ACH payment monitoring for all network participants (excluding consumers), marking a pivotal shift.

Despite not altering liability, recipient financial institutions (RDFIs) gain a monitoring role for the first time. With BEC scams, vendor impersonation, and payroll fraud causing significant losses, the need for action is urgent.

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2024-03-20T08:29:55-04:00March 20th, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: , , , , |
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Having An Identity Crisis Because Of The Scam And Loss – 2024

Having An Identity Crisis Because Of The Scam And Loss

Helping Scam Victims to Understand the Psychological Effects of Relationship Scams

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Experiencing a significant loss, whether it’s due to a romance scam, investment fraud, divorce, job termination, or business failure, often triggers a profound identity crisis. This crisis induces a deep sense of failure in individuals as they grapple with the disruption to their core beliefs, values, and sense of self-worth.

Victims of scams, in particular, face a unique challenge as they confront the betrayal of trust and the shattered illusions they held about love, intimacy, or financial security. This assault on their core beliefs leads to a range of emotional Read More …

2024-03-18T02:49:05-04:00March 18th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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The Butterfly Effect And Scam Victims – 2024

The Butterfly Effect And Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand the Causes and Effects that Create Vulnerability and Impact Recovery

An Insight into the Psychology of Scams

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The Butterfly Effect theory underscores the profound and unpredictable consequences that small variations in initial conditions can have on individuals victimized by scams. Originating from chaos theory, it highlights the interconnectedness of complex systems and their sensitivity to minor changes.

In the context of scams, awareness of initial conditions like vulnerability, trust, and financial stability can inform prevention efforts and support for victims.

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2024-03-17T04:20:23-04:00March 17th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , , , , |
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Nightmares, Night Terrors, And Scam Victim Trauma – 2024

Nightmares, Night Terrors, And Scam Victim Trauma

Helping Scam Victims Better Understand Their Trauma

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims often find themselves haunted by nightmares and night terrors, grappling with the aftermath of betrayal and deception in the safety of their sleep.

These nocturnal disturbances serve as vivid manifestations of the trauma inflicted upon them, plunging them into a state of primal dread as they confront the specter of past experiences. Night terrors, characterized by intense fear and confusion, add another layer of complexity to the already fraught landscape of scam-related trauma, leaving victims disoriented and distressed upon awakening.

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2024-03-16T07:06:15-04:00March 16th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , |
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The Global Fraud Summit In The UK – 2024

The 2024 Global Fraud Summit In The UK

Addressing Global Fraud & Cybercrimes

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  UK Home Office

About This Article

The historic Global Fraud Summit, held in the UK on March 10-11, 2024, brought together world leaders, industry experts, and representatives from multiple continents to tackle the growing threat of global fraud.

The summit aimed to foster international collaboration, raise public awareness, and develop strategies to disrupt criminal operations and prevent future scams.

A key outcome was the establishment of a joint communique outlining areas of focus, including information sharing, law enforcement cooperation, public education campaigns, and technological solutions.

This summit signifies a major step towards a more unified global front against fraud.

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2024-03-15T14:57:53-04:00March 15th, 2024|Categories: • ADVOCACY / POLICY, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team, UK Government, WORLDWIDE|Tags: , , , , , |
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EMDR Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma – A Part Of The Recovery Process For Many – 2024

EMDR Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma – A Part Of The Recovery Process For Many

Helping Scam Victims Understand A Form Of Effective Therapy That May Help Them

SCARS Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from additional sources, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration

About This Article

Scam victims often endure profound psychological trauma, experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Seeking effective treatment to address their trauma is crucial for recovery.

Emerging as a promising therapeutic approach, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy offers scam victims a path toward healing and restoration. EMDR therapy enables individuals to process traumatic memories and associated distressing emotions in a safe Read More …

2024-03-15T00:00:26-04:00March 14th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , , |
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CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma – 2024

CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma

Helping Scam Victims Understand A Form Of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy That May Help Them

SCARS Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from additional sources, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration

About This Article

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically designed to address the needs of scam victims suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related symptoms.

Developed by Dr. Patricia Resick and colleagues, CPT helps individuals challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts and beliefs related to their traumatic experiences. It consists of various components, including education about PTSD, stress management techniques, cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and skill-building exercises.

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2024-03-14T14:23:02-04:00March 14th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , , |
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Scam Victims Becoming Drug Mules In Japan And The Case Of Donna Nelson – 2024

Scam Victims Becoming Drug Mules in Japan

And the Case of Donna Nelson

Criminology – Understanding how Romance Scam Victims can be Converted into Criminals

Author:
• Rika Takebe, NPO Charms

About This Article

The arrest of Ebo Jeremiah in Japan sheds light on the sinister intersection of romance scams and drug trafficking. Exploiting a Japanese woman’s trust and affection, Jeremiah orchestrated the smuggling of methamphetamine from Israel to Japan, using her as a receiver under the guise of a fabricated romantic relationship.

This case underscores the vulnerability of fraud victims to manipulation and coercion, as well as the insidious tactics employed by criminal networks to exploit human emotions for illicit gains.

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2024-03-10T06:09:19-04:00March 10th, 2024|Categories: • CRIMINOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, JAPAN, NPO Charms Japan, Rika Takebe|Tags: , , , , , |
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The Unique Injury Of Betrayal Trauma On Scam Victims – 2024

The Unique Injury Of Betrayal Trauma On Scam Victims

A Cornerstone of Relationship Scams & Essential to Scam Victim Recovery

Understanding Scam Victim Trauma – Recovery Psychology

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Betrayal trauma, often experienced in relationship scams like romance fraud, inflicts deep emotional wounds on victims. It involves a profound breach of trust by someone close, triggering intense emotional responses and brain alterations. Victims experience a rollercoaster of emotions—disbelief, anger, sadness, and shame.

The relational aspect sets it apart from other traumas, impacting trust and self-worth.

Betrayal trauma impairs various brain regions, including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, mirror neuron system, insula, temporoparietal junction, and striatum.

Victims struggle with empathy, emotional regulation, and social perception. This trauma disrupts Read More …

2024-03-09T15:35:43-05:00March 9th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , |
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Gang Stalking Or Transnational Repression – 2024

Gang Stalking Or Transnational Repression

The Very Odd Crime of Gang Stalking or Transnational Repression – A Real Crime or Conspiracy Theory – the Evidence Will Tell the Story!

But Do Not Blame The Victim!

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The article delves into the complexities surrounding gang stalking, a phenomenon characterized by systematic harassment and surveillance of individuals by a network of perpetrators. While gang stalking is often dismissed as a conspiracy theory, it has a basis in fact, referred to as Transnation Repression.

Toxic victim blaming exacerbates the distress experienced by targeted individuals, undermining their credibility and perpetuating the cycle of abuse.

Additionally, the article explores the concept of transnational repression, where foreign governments target individuals abroad, and discusses how criminal gangs engage in similar tactics.

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2024-03-09T17:22:41-05:00March 9th, 2024|Categories: SCARS Editorial Team, • CRIMINOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE|Tags: , , , , |
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Trauma And Grief In Scam Victims – What Is The Difference Between Them – 2024

What Is The Difference Between Trauma And Grief?

Helping Scam Victims Understand the Importance of Trauma and How to Prioritize It

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. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

This article’s discussion sheds light on the intricate nature of trauma, emphasizing its dual impact as both a psychological and physical injury. Trauma disrupts normal brain functioning, leading to cognitive, emotional, and memory disturbances, while also causing changes in brain structure and chemistry.

This psychological toll manifests in symptoms like hypervigilance and mood disturbances. Moreover, trauma elicits physical responses such as headaches and muscle tension, stemming from the body’s stress response mechanisms. Recognizing trauma’s multifaceted nature underscores the importance of holistic approaches to healing and recovery, addressing both psychological and Read More …

2024-03-06T21:35:56-05:00March 6th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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You Must Read And Agree To The SCARS Legal Opinion Disclaimer

SCARS™ ScamsNOW™ is the Scam Education & Victims Support publication of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS]

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