Understanding Criminality – What Is Its Essence? 2023

Criminality – What Is Its Essence?

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

Understanding the Essence of Criminality is Very Difficult For Victims!

The essence of criminality involves engaging in actions or behaviors that are prohibited by law and deemed harmful to individuals, communities, or society as a whole.

2023-10-29T13:09:52-04:00Uncategorized|

Major Offensive Against African Black Axe Criminal Cartel By Irish Garda Police

By SCARS Editorial Team, portions by: Garda, Irish Times

Taking On The African/Nigerian Black Axe Gang!

Irish Garda Plays A Key Role In Taking Them On

A major Garda Síochána enforcement action was conducted in conjunction with INTERPOL and Law Enforcement Agencies across 21 countries around the world under Operation JACKAL. Closing ranks on West African organized crime: more than EUR 2 million seized in Operation Jackal

In the most recent series of actions Gardaí identify almost 1,000 people with Irish addresses linked to the sinister operation which also funds terror

Previous 2023 Garda Actions Against Black Axe:

3 premises were searched in Dublin, Wicklow, and Longford
9 persons were arrested and detained under Organised Crime legislation
4 Persons were arrested and detained for money laundering offenses
33 persons were arrested and charged with money laundering
1 person was arrested and charged with gangland offenses and money laundering
9 incidents of stolen money recovered from foreign bank accounts
Over €400,000 of stolen monies was recovered from Irish companies.

2023-08-15T14:29:56-04:00Uncategorized|

5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK – 2024

5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK

Fraud on a Massive Factory Scale

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

Five Bulgarian fraudsters who defrauded the UK’s Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) of £54 million have been jailed for over 25 years. The gang hijacked 6,000 identities to claim Universal Credit, using children’s names from Bulgaria.

They operated three ‘benefit factories’ in London, producing fake tenancy agreements, payslips, and letters to trick the DWP. The group flaunted their wealth on social media, with photos showing them at Antonia’s Foods supermarket in Wood Green. Ringleader Galina Nikolova, 38, was sentenced to eight years for her key role in the scam, which Judge David Aaronberg described as being conducted on an ‘industrial scale’. Stoyan Stoyanov, 27, received four years, while Gyunesh Ali, 33, was jailed for seven years and three months. Tsvetka Todorova, 52, and Patritsia Paneva, 26, received three years each.

Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol – 2024

Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

Europol, alongside Italian and Portuguese authorities, spearheaded a major crackdown on money mule service providers laundering over EUR 10 million for a criminal organization behind cryptocurrency scams.

Supported by law enforcement from Austria, France, Germany, Romania, Spain, and Switzerland, the operation involved raids in France, Italy, and Romania, resulting in 11 detentions, including the scheme’s mastermind, and the seizure of electronic devices, jewelry, and cryptocurrencies.

The scam targeted millionaires through sophisticated rip-deal scams, utilizing cryptocurrencies. Europol and Eurojust provided critical support, facilitating information exchange and forensic assistance, while Europol’s #DontBeaMule campaign aims to prevent money mule activities across the EU.

Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI – 2024

Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards.

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards. Charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, the duo allegedly manipulated the market by misrepresenting low-to-mid grade cards as high-grade, authenticated by a reputable grading company, causing victims to overpay and resulting in over $2 million in fraudulent sales.

The scheme, which spanned from 2022 to May 2024, involved selling cards with falsified grades through online marketplaces and in-person venues. Curcio and Bondarchuk used fake identities to conceal their involvement, even after victims confronted them.

The case highlights the FBI’s commitment to combating fraud and protecting consumers in the collectibles market.

UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud – 2024

UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud

Psychology of Scams

Authors:
• UK Parliament – Government of the United Kingdom
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Fraud poses a significant threat to the UK, with 4 in 10 offences targeting individuals. The government’s 2023 Fraud Strategy aims to combat this, emphasizing victim support and prevention.

While stereotypes of elderly victims persist, fraud risks vary due to psychological and social factors. Beyond financial loss, fraud inflicts emotional and psychological harm.

Victims often report fraud to banks rather than authorities. Effective prevention strategies involve education and enhanced victim care. This POSTnote underscores the multifaceted nature of fraud and the need for comprehensive, collaborative approaches to mitigate its impact on individuals in England and Wales.

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.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-03-21T20:01:06-04:00• VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|

Nigerian Scammer Justice: Why We MUST Extradite – Guest Editorial – 2023

Nigerian Scammer Justice: Why We MUST Extradite

A Nigerian Scammer Comparison of Criminal Justice

A Guest Editorial

Author:
• Gary Warner, UAB Computer Forensics / DarkTower Threat Intelligence

Why Extradition Of Nigerian Scammers Is So Important? Because Nigeria’s EFCC Lets Them Off With A Slap On The Hand!

Meet Osondu Victor IGWILO, a Nigerian Scammer

In 2018, the FBI Houston office charged IGWILO with being the “Chairman” of a scheme where IGWILO and his team would send emails claiming to be BB&T Bank Executives and executing various “advance-fee schemes” including investment scams and inheritance scams.

Irish Criminal Assets Bureau – Deny And Deprive Criminals Of Assets Acquired Through Criminal Conduct – 2023

Irish Criminal Assets Bureau – Deny And Deprive Criminals Of Assets Acquired Through Criminal Conduct

Author:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

The Irish Criminal Assets Bureau – Establishing A Perfect Model To Disrupt Transnational Scammers & Cybercriminals Worldwide

Irish Criminal Assets Bureau: Seize • Tax • Recover

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, 1996 to 2016 the Criminal Assets Bureau can freeze and seize assets which it shows to the Irish High Court are the proceeds of criminal conduct. This is done on the civil standard of proof which is known internationally as non-Conviction Based Forfeiture. Because Ireland is a part of the European Union, this gives them certain authority across Europe as well.

SCARS Editorial Team2023-12-11T02:46:48-05:00SCARS Editorial Team, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2023, ARTICLE, IRELAND|

Mule Addresses

By David Maimon, Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Georgia State University and Saba Aslanzadeh, PhD Student in in Computer Science, Georgia State University

What Are ‘Mule Addresses’? Criminologists Explain How Vacant Properties Serve As Depots For Illegal Online Purchases

Online shopping isn’t just a convenient way to buy batteries, diapers, computers, and other stuff without going to a brick-and-mortar store.

Many Americans also use the internet to quietly acquire illegal, fake, and stolen items. Guns, prescription drugs no doctor has ordered and checks are on this long list, as well as cloned credit cards, counterfeit passports, and phony driver’s licenses.

2023-09-21T06:49:37-04:00Uncategorized|

Cybercriminal Mole – UK Police Arrest One Of Their Own!

By U.K. National Crime Agency (NCA) and SCARS Editorial Team

Operation Venetic: Corrupt Police Worker Admits Tipping-Off Criminal Over Secret Nationwide Investigation

A corrupt police employee illegally accessed sensitive information and tipped off a criminal friend about a massive, secret investigation into serious and organized crime.

SCARS Note: It is estimated that organized crime has infiltrated nearly every police jurisdiction in the UK and throughout Europe!

UK Police Officer Arrested

Natalie Mottram, 24, from Warrington, was employed by Cheshire Police but was on secondment and working as an intelligence analyst at the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) when she was arrested by National Crime Agency officers on 12 June 2020.

She was arrested as part of Operation Venetic – the NCA-led UK response to the takedown of the encrypted communications platform EncroChat.

2023-08-25T18:11:13-04:00Uncategorized|

Cybercriminals Operating Major Ransomware Hosting Service Arrested In Poland

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., portions Department of Justice and Europol

Cybercriminals Running ‘Bulletproof’ Webhosting Domain Charged in Connection with Facilitation of ‘NetWalker’ Ransomware

U.S. Authorities, along with Europol Announce Court-Authorized Seizure of LolekHosted.net

5 European cybercriminals were also arrested!

An indictment was unsealed yesterday in Tampa, Florida, USA charging a Polish national with computer fraud conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, and international money laundering in connection with the provision of “bulletproof” web hosting services that facilitated the operation of ransomware attacks and the subsequent laundering of the illicit proceeds.

2023-08-13T06:12:09-04:00Uncategorized|

Scam Victim Commits Crimes For Their Scammers

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Japanese Scam Victim Embezzled Millions From Her Employer!

Why did this romance scam victim embezzle?! Simply, she was under the control of criminals; it’s nothing more complicated than that!

Nisshin’s a 66-year-old woman and scam victim was suspected of embezzling 10 million yen (USD$71,613 dollars) from her employer!

2023-07-19T21:00:29-04:00Uncategorized|

55 Scammers Arrested – Nigerians Execute A Major Raid

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., portions EFCC

55 Scammers Arrested In Massive Raids In Nigeria

The Scammers Arrested Include Ex-Convict Scammers Returning To Crime

According to the EFCC, they executed a major raid with 55 scammers arrested, Seized 7 Cars, 79 Phones:

2023-07-19T21:01:22-04:00Uncategorized|

Changes In A Scam Victim’s Life

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

After A Scam Or Crime Is Over, Its Victims Are Left To Figure Out How To Go Forward And What Changes Need To Be Made In Their Life!

Scam victim changes come at every stage of the post-crime recovery. They vary from stage to stage as the person goes from being a victim to a survivor to a thrive! At each stage, different changes are needed both for safety and to allow emotional and psychological recovery.

2023-07-11T17:45:30-04:00Uncategorized|

Social Media Prohibition!

US Judge Blocks Biden Officials From Contacting Social Media Sites

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Major Blow To The Biden Administration’s Attempts To Control Social Media

The Attorney Generals for Louisiana and Missouri have filed a lawsuit alleging that the federal government is unlawfully censoring conservative viewpoints in violation of the First Amendment.

A federal judge, Terry A. Doughty, has ruled that several Biden administration officials are prohibited from contacting social media companies regarding the moderation of posts protected by the First Amendment.

2023-07-06T00:29:02-04:00Uncategorized|

Victimology – What Is It?

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

The Science of VICTIMOLOGY

Pronounced: vic·tim·ol·o·gy

Introduction

Victimology is the study of the victims of crime and the psychological effects on them resulting from their experience. “specialists in victimology will study how best to help the victims of crime recover” and what causes vulnerability to crime.

Victimology is considered a science. It is a branch of criminology that scientifically studies the relationship between an injured party and an offender by examining the causes and the nature of the consequent suffering.

2023-07-02T16:41:38-04:00Uncategorized|

The Importance Of Taxonomies In Understanding Scams Fraud & Cybercrimes – 2023

The Importance Of Taxonomies In Understanding Scams Fraud & Cybercrimes

Criminology

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

Article Abstract

The article delineates the paramount significance of taxonomies in criminology, cybersecurity, fraud prevention, and law enforcement, emphasizing their role in creating unified frameworks for understanding criminal behavior.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-01-10T14:50:02-05:00• CRIMINOLOGY, 2023, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|

Evolved Apes NFT Scam – 2024

Evolved Apes NFT Scam

The Truth Behind Yet Another Internet Fake Bubble

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

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

About This Article

Evolved Apes NFT: The Former Jewel of NFTs – Scammers Face Up to 40 Years in Prison for $2.7M Fraud. In a significant crackdown on NFT-related fraud, three British nationals involved in the “Evolved Apes” NFT scam have been charged in the United States with wire fraud and money laundering. The suspects, Mohamed-Amin Atcha, Mohamed Rilaz Waleedh, and Daood Hassan, are accused of orchestrating a scheme that defrauded investors out of $2.7 million.

If convicted, they face up to 40 years in prison. This case underscores the vulnerabilities within the burgeoning NFT market and highlights the need for regulatory oversight to protect investors from similar fraudulent schemes. NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, represent ownership of unique digital assets, and their initial hype promised a revolutionary change in digital ownership and the creator economy.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-06-25T04:57:12-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|

The Common Cognitive Distortions Of Scam Victims – 2024

The Common Cognitive Distortions Of Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand Cognitive Distortions and Irrational Thinking

Primary Category: 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

Cognitive distortions, prevalent in scam victims, are faulty thinking patterns that amplify negative perceptions and hinder recovery. These distortions, including ‘what if’ thinking, overgeneralization, and black-and-white reasoning, perpetuate anxiety and helplessness, leading to emotional turmoil.

Scam victims often engage in catastrophic hypotheticals, imagining worst-case scenarios that fuel distress and immobilize them. To manage these distortions, victims must recognize and challenge their validity, shifting focus from imagined threats to practical solutions.

Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule – 2024

Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule

An Example of how Online Relationships can get someone arrested!

Primary Category: Victim’s Story

Author:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Yahoo Japan and other sources

About This Article

Mariko Takeuchi, the first Japanese national sentenced to death for drug trafficking in Malaysia, had her death sentence commuted to 30 years in prison on May 29, 2024, following judicial reforms that abolished mandatory capital punishment for certain offenses.

Arrested in 2009 for carrying 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from Dubai, she claimed she was unknowingly used as a drug mule by an acquaintance. Despite her defense, Malaysian courts consistently found her testimony not credible, leading to her death sentence in 2011.

Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe – 2024

Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe

Europol and Partners Take Down Another Major Botnet Cybercrime Organization

Primary Category: Cybercrime

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

About This Article

Europol’s largest-ever operation against botnets, dubbed Operation Endgame, targeted malware droppers like IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, and Bumblebee. Coordinated from Europol’s headquarters between May 27 and 29, 2024, the operation aimed to disrupt criminal services by arresting high-value targets, taking down criminal infrastructures, and freezing illegal proceeds.

The multinational effort, involving countries such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States, led to four arrests, 16 location searches, and the takedown of over 100 servers. This operation, supported by Eurojust and various private partners, addressed the complex challenge of international cybercrime, highlighting the critical role of botnets in deploying ransomware.

911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down By Law Enforcement – 2024

911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down

Law Enforcement Takes Down Another Major Cybercrime Operation

Primary Category: Law Enforcement

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation

About This Article

In a significant international law enforcement operation led by the U.S. Justice Department, the notorious 911 S5 botnet, responsible for infecting over 19 million IP addresses and facilitating large-scale fraud and other crimes, has been dismantled.

The operation resulted in the arrest of YunHe Wang, a Chinese national, who allegedly created and operated the botnet from 2014 to 2022. Wang’s malware compromised millions of residential computers, allowing cybercriminals to commit various offenses, including financial fraud and child exploitation.

Scam Victims: The Need To Tell Their Stories – The Need For Acceptance – 2024

Scam Victims: The Need To Tell Their Stories – The Need For Acceptance

Being Accepted is a Basic Primal Need we all have! When Scam Victims tell their Stories they Seek Acceptance, but there is a downside too!

Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

Victims of scams and other crimes often feel a primal need to tell their stories, seeking acceptance and validation from others. This act of sharing serves as a means of seeking connection, healing, and empowerment in the aftermath of trauma.

However, storytelling can also be manipulated by con artists to exploit vulnerabilities and perpetrate further deception.

Trauma survivors, in their search for understanding and meaning, may be susceptible to believing false stories and urban legends, further complicating their recovery journey.

Understanding the dual nature of storytelling is crucial in recognizing its role in both healing and victimization, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of truth and fiction in their quest for acceptance and justice.

Being A Victim – Labeling Theory & What It Means For Victims Of Scams Or Anyone! – 2023 [UPDATED 2024]

Labeling Theory & What It Means For Victims Of Scams

When words evoke strong emotional responses they can mean many things, but most of them are not good. They can easily become triggers for unresolved and unmanaged trauma.

Authors:
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Vianey Gonzalez – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

Originally published in 2023 – updated 2024

About This Article

Labeling someone as a victim is simply a descriptive term, but how they react to it can reveal a lot about their emotional state. Some may accept it easily, while others might feel deeply ashamed, guilty, or even proud.

This internalization can lead to what’s called a victim mentality, where a person constantly sees themselves as helpless and blames others for their problems. This mindset can make it hard for them to recover from what happened. Overcoming this mentality involves accepting what happened, allowing themselves to feel their emotions, and seeking support from others.

It’s critical to understand that being labeled a victim doesn’t define a person; with the right help and support, they can move forward and rebuild their lives, reclaiming their sense of agency and resilience in the process.

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal – A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana/Nigerian Scammers – 2024 – [Videos]

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal

A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana Scammers Who Controlled Here!

A Not Uncommon Case of a Romance Scam Victim Who loses Everything and then becomes a Money Mule for Ghana Scammers

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions CBS News and other sources

About This Article

Laura Kowal’s tragic story sheds light on the devastating impact of romance scams, where victims like her become enslaved by expert criminals, leading to dire consequences. Laura, a widow seeking companionship, fell victim to a scam orchestrated by individuals masquerading as her online lover, ‘Frank Borg.’

Despite initial feelings of romance and excitement, Laura eventually became a money mule for Ghana scammers, after ultimately losing $1.5 million.

Mysteriously, she was found drowned in a river, raising suspicions of foul play. Her daughter, Kelly Gowe, tirelessly seeks answers, highlighting the manipulative tactics and devastating consequences of romance scams.

Cruel Or Indifferent To Suffering – What Scammers Do And Why It Is So Important For Scam Victims To Understand – 2024

Cruel Or Indifferent To Suffering

What Scammers Do And Why It Is So Important For Scam Victims To Understand

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

About This Article

In understanding the dynamics of romance or other scams and their impact on victims, distinguishing between cruelty and indifference is crucial. Perpetrators of scams often operate from a place of indifference, lacking empathy rather than exhibiting personal animosity toward their victims. This realization is pivotal for victims, as it helps depersonalize the crime, reclaim their sense of agency, and access the support needed for recovery.

Overcoming indifference requires proactive steps, including cultivating empathy, expressing gratitude, educating oneself, and taking meaningful action to combat social injustices. By focusing on empathy, compassion, and understanding, society can create a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals affected by scams.

Recognizing the distinction between cruelty and indifference empowers victims to navigate their journey toward healing and ultimately fosters a more compassionate and inclusive society.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-04-24T03:36:12-04:00Tim McGuinness PhD, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE|

Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang – 2024

Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang

A U.S. Soldier from Ghana becomes a real romance scam gang member

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

About This Article

Former U.S. Army soldier Sanda G. Frimpong, formerly stationed at Fort Bragg, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for his involvement in a money laundering romance scam targeting vulnerable individuals, including seniors and military veterans, from 2019 to 2022. Frimpong, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering in exchange for the dismissal of multiple charges, including wire fraud and identity theft.

His fraudulent activities, which included impersonating romantic partners and military personnel, resulted in the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through various bank accounts and contacts in Ghana.

Emmanuel Kant And The Morality Of Scams – An Essay – 2024

Emmanuel Kant And The Morality Of Scams

An Essay about Moral Duty and Scams

Philosophy of Scams

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

About This Article

In the work we do of scam victim advocacy and support, Emmanuel Kant’s philosophy can play an important role in guiding our approach to understanding and addressing the moral complexities inherent in scams and their aftermath. Kantian ethics, with its emphasis on universalizability, respect for autonomy, duty-based morality, and rationality, provides valuable insights into the ethical dimensions of relationship scams and the experiences of scam victims.

Of course, scammers violate Kant’s principles by treating victims as mere means to an end, exploiting their vulnerabilities, and undermining their autonomy. As victims navigate their recovery process, Kantian ethics underscores their moral duty to prioritize self-care, seek justice, respect their autonomy, engage in rational reflection, and educate others about the dangers of scams.

Indoctrination Of Scam Victims By Their Scammers? Yes! – 2024

Indoctrination Of Scam Victims By Their Scammers? Yes!

Indoctrination is often Poorly Understood, but Criminals use it extensively in conducting their Scams

Psychology of 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

Scam victims often undergo a form of psychological indoctrination, a process of systematic manipulation aimed at shaping their beliefs and behaviors, though it’s not identical to traditional indoctrination methods. This manipulation occurs through various tactics such as control of information, social influence, emotional manipulation, and reinforcement, often within the context of a romantic relationship or financial scheme.

Scammers exploit victims’ vulnerabilities, instilling false beliefs like urgency, trust, loyalty, and more to perpetuate their scams. Gaslighting and negative indoctrination tactics further entrench victims, making them resistant to questioning the legitimacy of the situation.

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 an introduction to the subject, individuals are advised to consult their doctor for personalized guidance.

7 Chinese Hackers Indicted In U.S. Court For Cybercrime – 2024

7 Chinese Hackers Indicted In U.S. Court

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• United States Department of Justice

About This Article

In a significant development, seven Chinese hackers, associated with the Chinese government and operating under the APT31 cybercrime and hacking group, have been indicted for their involvement in a sophisticated cybercrime scheme targeting perceived critics of China, U.S. businesses, and politicians.

The indictment, unsealed recently, charges the individuals with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and wire fraud, highlighting their role in cyber espionage, economic espionage, and foreign intelligence activities.

UK Engaged In Massive Crackdown on Fraud – Over 400 Arrests – 2024 [VIDEO]

UK Engaged In Massive Crackdown on Fraud – Over 400 Arrests

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• UK National Crime Agency

About This Article

Operation Henhouse, a UK law enforcement/police campaign targeting fraud and scams, resulted in over 400 arrests and £19 million seized across February and March 2024. Coordinated by the National Economic Crime Centre and City of London Police, it involved all UK police forces and agencies like the Financial Conduct Authority and National Crime Agency.

The crackdown aimed to combat the pervasive threat of fraud, which accounts for 40% of UK crime reports and costs £6.8 billion annually. With substantial arrests and disruptions nationwide,

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.

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.

Mona Faiz Montrage ‘Hajia4Reall’ – A Ghana Influencer Pleads Guilty In U.S. Court To Romance Scams – 2024

Ghana Influencer Mona Faiz Montrage ‘Hajia4Reall’ Pleads Guilty In U.S. Court To Romance Scams

Ghana Influencer Guilty of Involvement In Ghana Romance Scams

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

About This Article

Ghanaian influencer and musician Mona Faiz Montrage, also known as Hajia4Reall, has confessed to her involvement in a string of romance scams, leading to the illicit acquisition of over $2 million, as disclosed by the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

The 31-year-old, once revered as a leading Instagram influencer with a following exceeding 3 million, was linked to a West African criminal syndicate orchestrating fraudulent activities targeting individuals and enterprises in the United States.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-02-24T10:10:28-05:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, GHANA, NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|

LockBit Ransomware Shut Down By Combined Global Law Enforcement – 2024

LockBit Ransomware Shut Down By Combined Global Law Enforcement

Global Operation Chronos Shuts Down LockBit Ransomware

Cybercrime News

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Europol
• U.S. Department of Justice

About This Article

FBI and Europol reports LockBit as the most deployed ransomware globally, with operations disrupted by law enforcement across ten countries. LockBit, infamous for causing extensive financial damage, saw its criminal activities severely compromised.

The international effort, led by the UK’s National Crime Agency under ‘Operation Cronos’, coordinated by Europol, dismantled LockBit’s infrastructure, including 34 seized servers. Arrests were made in Poland and Ukraine, with warrants issued by French and US authorities. Over 200 cryptocurrency accounts linked to the group were frozen.

A Fake Social Media Scam But A Real Murder For Hire Plot In Alaska – 2024

A Fake Social Media Scam But A Real Murder For Hire Plot In Alaska

How a Fake Social Media Profile Induced Teens Online to Commit a Murder for Hire!

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions Alaska Department of Law, KTUU, and other sources

About This Article

The chilling murder-for-hire plot in Alaska involving Denali Dakota Skye Brehmer, which resulted in the tragic death of 19-year-old Cynthia Hoffman, highlights the dangerous consequences of online deception and manipulation, particularly in the context of ‘catfishing’ schemes.

Brehmer, along with her accomplices, was induced by an Indiana man, Darin Schilmiller, who offered a false promise of $9 million in exchange for photos and videos of Hoffman’s murder.

Despite not being the one to pull the trigger, Brehmer’s pivotal role in orchestrating the murder led to her sentencing of 99 years in prison.

Transnational Organized Crime Using Luxury Goods For Money Laundering – 2024

Transnational Organized Crime Using Luxury Goods For Money Laundering

Understanding the Money Flows with Transnational Organized Crime

An Overview of Transnational Organized Crime Money Laundering

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

About This Article

Transnational organized crime (TOC) is increasingly turning to luxury goods like watches and handbags for money laundering. These items’ high value, portability, and established resale channels make them attractive for criminals to hide and convert illicit gains.

TOC methods involve bulk purchases, smuggling, fake documentation, and online marketplaces. The consequences impact businesses through reputational damage and market distortion, governments battling financing of illegal activities, and consumers facing trust issues about product authenticity.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-02-13T05:55:42-05:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team|

U.S. Bank President Lured Into Pig Butchering Scam – Embezzled Almost $50 Million – 2024

U.S. Bank President Lured Into Pig Butchering Scam

Victim Embezzled Almost $50 Million

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

About This Article

The CEO of a Kansas bank was arrested for allegedly embezzling $50 million to participate in a “Pig Butchering” crypto scam, where victims are manipulated into investing in fake schemes.

This incident, causing the bank to fail, highlights the rising threat of investment fraud, which the FBI reports increased 183% from 2021 to 2022. Kansas bank commissioner David Herndon urges caution, advising against clicking unknown links or replying to suspicious emails. This case underscores the importance of investor education and awareness regarding crypto scams and other forms of investment fraud.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-02-13T04:34:43-05:00SCARS Editorial Team, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, USA|

Search results for: criminal justice

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Criminality – What Is Its Essence?

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

Understanding the Essence of Criminality is Very Difficult For Victims!

Major Offensive Against African Black Axe Criminal Cartel By Irish Garda Police

By SCARS Editorial Team, portions by: Garda, Irish Times

Taking On The African/Nigerian Black Axe Gang!

Irish Garda Plays A Key Role In Taking Them On

Previous 2023 Garda Actions Against Black Axe:

5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK

Fraud on a Massive Factory Scale

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards.

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud

Psychology of Scams

Authors: • UK Parliament – Government of the United Kingdom • SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

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

Nigerian Scammer Justice: Why We MUST Extradite

A Nigerian Scammer Comparison of Criminal Justice

A Guest Editorial

Author: • Gary Warner, UAB Computer Forensics / DarkTower Threat Intelligence

Why Extradition Of Nigerian Scammers Is So Important? Because Nigeria’s EFCC Lets Them Off With A Slap On The Hand!

Meet Osondu Victor IGWILO, a Nigerian Scammer

Irish Criminal Assets Bureau – Deny And Deprive Criminals Of Assets Acquired Through Criminal Conduct

Author: • SCARS Editorial Team – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

The Irish Criminal Assets Bureau – Establishing A Perfect Model To Disrupt Transnational Scammers & Cybercriminals Worldwide

Irish Criminal Assets Bureau: Seize • Tax • Recover

Mule Addresses

By David Maimon, Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Georgia State University and Saba Aslanzadeh, PhD Student in in Computer Science, Georgia State University

What Are ‘Mule Addresses’? Criminologists Explain How Vacant Properties Serve As Depots For Illegal Online Purchases

Cybercriminal Mole – UK Police Arrest One Of Their Own!

By U.K. National Crime Agency (NCA) and SCARS Editorial Team

Operation Venetic: Corrupt Police Worker Admits Tipping-Off Criminal Over Secret Nationwide Investigation

UK Police Officer Arrested

Cybercriminals Operating Major Ransomware Hosting Service Arrested In Poland

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., portions Department of Justice and Europol

Cybercriminals Running ‘Bulletproof’ Webhosting Domain Charged in Connection with Facilitation of ‘NetWalker’ Ransomware

U.S. Authorities, along with Europol Announce Court-Authorized Seizure of LolekHosted.net

Scam Victim Commits Crimes For Their Scammers

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Japanese Scam Victim Embezzled Millions From Her Employer!

55 Scammers Arrested – Nigerians Execute A Major Raid

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., portions EFCC

55 Scammers Arrested In Massive Raids In Nigeria

The Scammers Arrested Include Ex-Convict Scammers Returning To Crime

Changes In A Scam Victim’s Life

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

After A Scam Or Crime Is Over, Its Victims Are Left To Figure Out How To Go Forward And What Changes Need To Be Made In Their Life!

Social Media Prohibition!

US Judge Blocks Biden Officials From Contacting Social Media Sites

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Major Blow To The Biden Administration’s Attempts To Control Social Media

A federal judge, Terry A. Doughty, has ruled that several Biden administration officials are prohibited from contacting social media companies regarding the moderation of posts protected by the First Amendment.

Victimology – What Is It?

By SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

The Science of VICTIMOLOGY

Introduction

The Importance Of Taxonomies In Understanding Scams Fraud & Cybercrimes

Criminology

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

Article Abstract

Evolved Apes NFT Scam

The Truth Behind Yet Another Internet Fake Bubble

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

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

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

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

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

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

Authors:
• UK Parliament – Government of the United Kingdom
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

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

Author:
• Gary Warner, UAB Computer Forensics / DarkTower Threat Intelligence

Author:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

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

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

Author:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Yahoo Japan and other sources

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

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation

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

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions CBS News and other sources

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