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Defeatism and its Impact on Scam Victims and Law Enforcement – 2024

Defeatism and its Impact on Law Enforcement and Scam Victims

How Defeatism Undermines Individual and Collective Efforts in the Fight Against Scams and Impacts Global Law Enforcement and Justice Systems

Primary Category: Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

Defeatism is a mindset where individuals or groups believe that failure is inevitable, leading to a lack of effort and a self-fulfilling prophecy of failure. This attitude can spread through society, hindering collective efforts to address significant challenges, such as combatting scams.

In global law enforcement and the justice system, defeatism can result in reduced motivation to pursue criminals, limited international cooperation, and insufficient resources dedicated to fighting scams.

For scam victims, defeatism manifests as a sense of hopelessness, inaction, and resignation, making it difficult for them to recover or seek justice.

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2024-08-27T01:48:51-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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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.

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2024-05-29T15:36:42-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice|
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Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform – 2024

Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform

The Takedown of the LabHost Platform is a Major Step in Reducing Phishing Scams

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Europol and UK Metropolitan Police

About This Article

Law enforcement agencies from 19 countries collaborated in a year-long operation to disrupt ‘LabHost,’ one of the world’s largest phishing-as-a-service platforms. Coordinated by Europol, the operation resulted in the compromise of LabHost’s infrastructure and the initial arrest of 37 suspects, with the potential for as many as 1,000 more arrests.

LabHost facilitated phishing attacks on users of hundreds of financial institutions worldwide for a monthly subscription fee. The platform, previously available on the open web, has been shut down following the investigation.

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2024-05-02T19:37:16-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, UK Government, WORLDWIDE|
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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.

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2024-02-21T22:12:44-05:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice, WORLDWIDE|
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SCARS Institute West Africa Project with GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR – 2024

SCARS Institute West Africa Project in Ghana – August 2024

With the help of GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR

Primary Category: Advocacy and Policy

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

About This Article

The SCARS Institute’s West Africa Project, in collaboration with the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF), hosted a two-day CyberLaw Academy event in Sunyani to strengthen cybersecurity and justice for victims of cybercrime, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

The event brought together law enforcement, state prosecutors, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for combating cybercrime and equipping professionals with the skills needed for effective prosecution.

The event highlighted the importance of digital evidence and collaborative efforts, empowering participants with knowledge on applying Ghana’s Cybersecurity and Electronic Transactions Acts in court. The event emphasized justice for victims and building a resilient digital future in Ghana.

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2024-09-18T15:37:47-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMINOLOGY, GHANA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Scam Victims And The Law Of Parsimony – 2024

Scam Victims And The Law Of Parsimony

Helping Scam Victims to Understand the Difference Between Real vs. Assumptions & Urban Legends!

Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

The Law of Parsimony, also known as Occam’s Razor, suggests that the simplest explanation is usually the correct one. This principle can be particularly helpful for scam victims as they navigate their recovery, helping them stay grounded in reality.

Despite sounding harsh, the goal is to help victims understand their mistakes and misconceptions to properly recover. After a scam, victims often cling to fantasies and false beliefs, making them vulnerable to being rescammed and seeking fantastical answers to their problems. Common misbeliefs include the effectiveness of exposing scammers, scam baiting, not reporting to the police, and thinking they were hypnotized.

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2024-07-31T05:54:50-04:00Tim McGuinness PhD, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE|
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Stockholm Syndrome – Getting Scam Victims To Break The Law – 2024

Stockholm Syndrome – Getting Scam Victims To Break The Law

Understanding The Coercive Power Of Scam Manipulation And Control

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.

Article Abstract

Romance scams, extend far beyond loss of trust and financial losses, often ensnaring victims in a web of emotional manipulation that can lead to criminal acts. Much like Stockholm syndrome, victims of romance scams experience intense psychological coercion, resulting in their coerced involvement in illegal activities for their fraudulent partners.

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2024-01-08T14:04:45-05:00• PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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Online Dating Safety Act – New Law Going Through The U.S. Congress 2023

Online Dating Safety Act

New Law Going Through The U.S. Congress

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

Bipartisan Online Dating Safety Act Will Help Reduce Dating App Scams That Cost Victims Over $1 Billion A Year

The bill is being led by Republican Rep. Valadao and Democratic Rep. Pettersen

House lawmakers are eyeing legislation to make dating app users more aware of potential scammers who tricked victims out of more than $1 billion in a single year.

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2023-11-02T07:40:55-04:00Uncategorized|
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Schemas Part 2: A Catalog of Schemas/Mental Model Types – 2024

Schemas Part 2: A Catalog of Schema/Mental Model Types

Better Understanding the Various Kinds Of Mental Model Cognitive Shortcuts

Primary Category: Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

Schemas, also known as mental models, are cognitive frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret the vast array of information they encounter. They are built from life experiences, memories, and learned patterns and play a significant role in how we understand the world. Schemas help to simplify complex information and enable individuals to predict outcomes and respond to situations based on past experiences.

While these frameworks can help streamline decision-making and understanding, they are not always accurate reflections of reality. For scam victims, schemas often shape their perception of trust and relationships.

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2024-09-21T01:29:19-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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A Quick Lesson in Cryptocurrency Asset Forfeiture for Scam Victims – 2024

A Quick Lesson in Asset Forfeiture for Scam Victims

A Commentary on the Process of Recovering Cryptocurrency

Primary Category: Guest Editorial

Author:
• Val Harkless, Senior Fraud Analyst/Investigator

About This Article

Cryptocurrency asset forfeiture for scam victims is a challenging process primarily due to limited resources and complex legal procedures. Investigators and agencies face significant hurdles, including a lack of trained personnel, high prosecution thresholds (typically between $300,000 to $500,000), and minimal experience in handling crypto-related investigations.

Asset forfeiture typically falls under three categories: administrative, criminal, and civil judicial, with most major cryptocurrency forfeitures processed through civil judicial actions.

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2024-09-18T14:57:41-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, GUEST AUTHORS, USA, Val Harkless|
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Scam Victims’ Do It Yourself Recovery: Dangers of Equivocation, Minimization, and Reductive Language – 2024

Dangers of Equivocation, Minimization, and Reductive Language

How Language Influences Thought and Impacts Recovery

Primary Category: Scam Victims’ Do It Yourself Recovery

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

About This Article

Equivocation, minimization, and reductive language are harmful tools that scam victims often use to downplay or distort their trauma, making the recovery process more difficult. These language patterns may initially offer emotional relief by avoiding the painful reality of the scam, but they ultimately hinder healing.

By minimizing the severity of their experience, victims delay recognizing and processing the emotional and psychological damage they have endured, which can lead to long-term distress, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This type of language also reinforces self-blame, prevents emotional validation, and limits the support victims receive from others.

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2024-09-16T15:56:36-04:00• DO IT YOURSELF RECOVERY, • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang – 2024

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore & Timor Leste Police Make a Major Bust

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

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

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore authorities make record recovery thanks to cooperation with Timor Leste through INTERPOL

A global stop-payment mechanism developed by INTERPOL has helped Singapore authorities make their largest-ever recovery of funds defrauded in a business email compromise scam.

On 23 July 2024, a commodity firm based in Singapore filed a police report stating that they had fallen victim to a business email compromise scam, in which a scammer obtains access to or impersonates a business email account to deceive employees into transferring money to their bank account.

On 15 July, the firm received an email from a supplier requesting that a pending payment be sent to a new bank account based in Timor Leste. The email, however, came from a fraudulent account spelled slightly differently from the supplier’s official email address.

Unaware, the firm transferred USD 42.3 million to the fake supplier on 19 July, only discovering the crime four days later when the genuine supplier said it had not been paid.

On receipt of the police report, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) swiftly requested assistance from authorities in Timor Leste through INTERPOL’s Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I-GRIP) mechanism.

I-GRIP uses the global police organization’s 196-country police network Read More …

2024-09-08T10:36:24-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, INTERPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, SINGAPORE, TIMOR LESTE|
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Sociology of Scam Victimization – A Brief Introduction – 2024

Sociology of Scam Victimization – A Brief Introduction

An Understanding of the Process and Impact of Victimization of Scam Victims

Primary Category: Sociology of Scam Victimization

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

About This Article

The Sociology of Scam Victimization examines the social dynamics, stigmas, and institutional responses that shape the experiences of individuals deceived by scams. Scam victims often face social stigma, being unfairly blamed and labeled as gullible, which can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation.

The concept of the “Chain of Suspicion” highlights how mistrust spreads from the victim to their social circle and institutions, further complicating recovery. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies, improving support systems, and addressing the societal factors that contribute to scam victimization.

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2024-09-03T07:00:15-04:00• SOCIOLOGY / POLITICAL SCIENCE, • VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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Emotional Numbness and Scam Victims – Coping After the Scam – 2024

Emotional Numbness and Scam Victims – Coping After the Scam

Helping Scam Victims Understand the Dual-Nature of Numbness as Both a Psychological Coping Mechanism and a Defense Mechanism

Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

Psychological or emotional numbness is a state where individuals become detached from their emotions as a response to overwhelming trauma, serving as both a defense and coping mechanism.

For scam victims, this numbness can provide immediate relief by shielding them from the intense emotional pain and distress associated with the betrayal and manipulation they’ve experienced. However, while numbness can help victims manage their immediate emotions, it can also hinder long-term recovery by preventing them from processing their trauma fully.

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2024-09-02T07:37:10-04:00Tim McGuinness PhD, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE|
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Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading – 2024 [VIDEO]

Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading

The Stark Reality of One of the World’s Deadliest Crime Syndicates!

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions Translated from Deutsche Welle
•  Post main image source: BBC – copyright acknowledged

About This Article

The Black Axe is one of the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations, with roots in Nigeria but an extensive global reach. Much of its wealth is derived from internet scams and financial fraud, often involving romance scams where victims, usually women, are deceived into sending large sums of money.

The group’s structure is complex and loosely organized, making it difficult for law enforcement to dismantle. However, recent efforts by Interpol, including Operation Jackal III, have led to significant arrests and the freezing of bank accounts, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating such criminal networks.

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2024-09-01T02:36:09-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, NIGERIA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, VIDEO / AUDIO|
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In Scams – It’s About the Criminal, Not About You the Scam Victim – 2024

In Trust-Based Relationship Scams – It’s About the Criminal, Not About You the Scam Victim

It is Hard for Scam Victims to Understand that the Crime had Nothing to do with Them! It was just a Business Transaction for the Criminals!

Primary Category: Victimology

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

About This Article

Scam victims often feel deeply betrayed and hurt, believing the scam was a personal attack on their emotions and intentions. However, it’s crucial to understand that relationship scams, whether involving romance, cryptocurrency investments, or other variants, are impersonal crimes driven by the scammer’s sole objective: financial gain.

Scammers operate with a cold detachment, seeing victims as targets rather than individuals, and they often run multiple scams simultaneously, using fake personas to manipulate emotions. Recognizing that the scam was not personal allows victims to separate their emotions from the crime, helping them to focus on recovery and self-protection rather than internalizing blame.

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2024-08-22T15:46:41-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, • VICTIMOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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Cultural Cognition And Its Impact On Scam Victims After The Scam – Part 2 – 2024

Cultural Cognition And Its Impact On Scam Victims After the Scam

Part 2

Understanding the Effects that Culture Can Have on Cognition After Scam Victimization

Primary Category: Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

Cultural cognition theory offers crucial insights into how individuals’ cultural values and social identities shape their responses after falling victim to scams. These cultural factors influence how victims react to the discovery of the scam, their willingness to report it, and their ability to recover.

Victims from cultures that emphasize personal responsibility may internalize blame, leading to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek help, while those from collectivist cultures might be concerned about how their victimization reflects on their community, leading to underreporting. The stigma associated with being scammed can further deter victims from discussing their experiences or seeking assistance.

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2024-08-17T23:10:50-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, WORLDWIDE|
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Scam Victim Resentment Towards Money Mules – Letting It Go! – 2024

Scam Victim Resentment Towards Money Mules – Letting It Go!

Helping Scam Victims to Understand Their Resentment towards Money Mules

Primary Category: 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

When scam victims discover that their money was transferred through a “money mule”—a person who unknowingly or knowingly facilitated the scam—the resulting feelings of betrayal and resentment can be overwhelming. This resentment is natural, as it stems from the deep emotional and financial toll of the scam.

However, it’s important to understand that money mules can either be willing participants or unwitting victims themselves, manipulated by the same criminals. The uncertainty of not knowing the mule’s true involvement can fuel ongoing anger, which, if fed, will grow and persist, preventing emotional recovery. Holding onto resentment not only exacerbates the trauma but also impacts mental and physical health, leading to chronic stress, anxiety, and difficulty in forming healthy relationships.

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2024-08-12T11:14:08-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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Have You Ever Considered That The Explosion Of Scams Was Purposeful Beyond Simple Crime? A Political Science Editorial – 2024

Have You Ever Considered that the Explosion of Scams Was Purposeful Beyond Simple Crime?

Sometimes Conspiracy Theories Are Real! A Political Science Editorial

Primary Category: Editorial & Commentary

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

About This Article

The increasing prevalence of scams, online fraud, and fear-inducing tactics pose significant risks to societal stability and economic security. These strategies can weaken social cohesion, undermine trust in institutions, and erode confidence in both economic and political systems, making the population more vulnerable to manipulation and control.

Those in power may exploit a traumatized populace by amplifying fears and offering solutions that appear to address these concerns, but which ultimately serve to consolidate authority and reduce public resistance. This dynamic can lead to a more passive and compliant society, where fear and anxiety are used to justify actions that might undermine democratic principles.

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2024-08-12T09:03:07-04:00Tim McGuinness PhD, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • SOCIOLOGY / POLITICAL SCIENCE, 2024, EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, WORLDWIDE|
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United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

After three years of work, the committee established by the UN General Assembly to negotiate a new convention on cybercrime agreed today on a draft convention text.

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

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

About This Article

The United Nations has finalized a draft of a new global cybercrime convention, marking a significant milestone after three years of negotiations by a committee established by the UN General Assembly.

Expected to be adopted later this year, this convention will become the first globally binding legal instrument on cybercrime, addressing the rapidly growing threats in cyberspace. The convention represents the first multilateral anti-crime treaty in over two decades and has been developed with the input of various stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and the private sector.

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2024-08-10T10:35:07-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, United Nations, WORLDWIDE|
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UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology – 2024

UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology

United Nations Issues Warning About Expanding Organized Crime

Primary Category: Organized Crime

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

About This Article

Industrial-scale cyberfraud operations in Southeast Asia are evolving rapidly due to technological advancements and the increasing professionalization of transnational criminal networks. These operations, often linked to sophisticated underground banking and money laundering organizations, are outpacing governmental efforts to contain them.

A recent UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing this threat, which includes hundreds of scam centers and thousands of trafficked individuals working in illicit industries. Countries like the Philippines have banned certain gambling sectors to curb these activities. Despite efforts to dismantle cyber-enabled fraud operations, organized crime groups are diversifying and moving into more remote areas, utilizing deepfakes and malware.

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2024-08-06T13:12:17-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, SOUTHEAST ASIA, United Nations|
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NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators – 2024

NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators

A Proposed New Law that can have a Significant Impact of Deep Fake Scams and Impersonations

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

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

About This Article

The NO FAKES Act, introduced in July 2024 by Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis, aims to protect individuals’ voices and likenesses from unauthorized AI-generated replicas.

The bill has positive aspects, such as safeguarding personal rights, holding creators and platforms accountable, creating a uniform national standard, and considering First Amendment protections.

However, it also faces challenges, including potential overreach, enforcement difficulties, impact on smaller entities, and broader implications for Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

The bipartisan support highlights its importance, though careful implementation is necessary to balance creativity and personal rights.

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2024-08-02T03:24:43-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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High Justice Sensitivity And Scam Victims – 2024

High Justice Sensitivity And Scam Victims

Understanding What Can Easily Become an Obsessive Behavior or Mentality in Scam Victims

Primary Category: 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

High justice sensitivity refers to an individual’s heightened awareness and strong emotional reactions to perceived injustices, whether they occur personally or to others. This trait is characterized by an intense focus on fairness, a deep sense of empathy for victims, and a persistent desire to address wrongs.

People with high justice sensitivity often experience significant distress over unfair situations and may feel compelled to act against perceived injustices, sometimes leading to obsessive thoughts or actions. This sensitivity can manifest in behaviors like advocacy or vigilantism, driven by a need to see justice restored or wrongdoers punished.

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2024-07-26T22:44:59-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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Countries Are Now Using Organized Crime/Criminals To Do Bad Things! 2024

Countries Are Now Using Criminals To Do Bad Things!

Many Countries Such As India and Iran Are Using Criminals to get Bad Things Done!

Primary Category: Editorial

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

About This Article

Some countries, such as Iran and India, are increasingly using criminal organizations like BLACK AXE to conduct covert operations, including foreign interference, targeted killings, and other illegal activities.

This strategy allows these countries to deny involvement and avoid international repercussions. The use of criminals for such purposes dates back to historical practices, like privateering under Queen Elizabeth I, but has evolved to include modern-day cybercriminals and gangs.

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2024-07-25T19:46:49-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, CHINA (PRC), EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, INDIA, IRAN|
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Meta Combating Financial Sextortion Scams From Nigeria – 2024

Meta is Combating Financial Sextortion Scams from Nigeria

A Statement from Meta (Facebook/Instagram/WhatsApp)

Primary Category: News

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

About This Article

Financial sextortion is a borderless crime increasingly perpetrated by cybercriminals known as Yahoo Boys, primarily operating out of Nigeria. Meta recently removed around 63,000 Instagram accounts and 7,200 Facebook assets linked to these scammers. This included a coordinated network of 2,500 Instagram accounts and various Facebook Groups that provided guidance on conducting scams.

Meta’s efforts, supported by enhanced detection systems and cooperation with law enforcement, aim to prevent these crimes and protect potential victims, including teens and minors. The company also supports training programs for law enforcement to better handle such crimes.

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2024-07-25T08:15:45-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, Additional Authors, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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What Is Justice For A Scam Victim? 2024

What does Justice Mean to Scam Victims?

Justice can sometimes be elusive but for Scam Victims it seems like it is Impossible! But it is Possible!

Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery

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

About This Article

Justice for scam victims can feel elusive, as the chances of recovering lost money or seeing perpetrators arrested are slim. Instead, the best way for victims to achieve a sense of justice is by shifting their focus inward, prioritizing their own needs and recovery.

Personal healing becomes paramount in the face of financial and legal setbacks. Through professional counseling, joining support groups, and engaging in self-care, victims can regain control over their lives.

This approach empowers them to rebuild their sense of self-worth, move past the trauma, and find a renewed sense of stability and resilience, ultimately achieving a form of justice centered on their well-being.

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2024-07-18T21:03:51-04:00• FOR SCAM VICTIMS, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers – 2024

INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers

Major Interpol Led Operation Targets ‘Black Axe’ and Other Organized Crime Groups

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

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

About This Article

A global law enforcement operation, Operation Jackal III, targeted West African organized crime groups, including Black Axe, resulting in 300 arrests and the seizure of USD 3 million in assets.

Running from April 10 to July 3, 2024, across 21 countries, the operation focused on combating online financial fraud and dismantling criminal networks. Over 400 suspects were identified, and over 720 bank accounts were blocked.

The operation highlighted the critical need for international collaboration in addressing the alarming rise in financial fraud stemming from West Africa.

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2024-07-16T12:21:23-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, INTERPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|
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Cultural Selection Theory or Cultural Evolution and the Dangers of Unending Financial Fraud and Scams! – 2024

Cultural Selection Theory or Cultural Evolution and the Dangers of Unending Financial Fraud and Scams!

Understanding How Our Civilization Evolved the Online Scammer

Primary Category: Criminology

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

About This Article

The theory of civilizations involving the Preservative Force and the Innovative Force highlights the importance of both stability and change in the development and sustainability of societies. The ongoing interaction between these forces drives cultural evolution, influencing how civilizations rise, adapt, and sometimes fall. Understanding this dynamic can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by contemporary and future societies.

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2024-07-14T17:11:39-04:00• CRIMINOLOGY, • ADVOCACY / POLICY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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Cyber Espionage: A New Trend Of Chinese Scam Victim Spies – 2024

Cyber Espionage: A New Trend of Turning Chinese or Other Nation-State Scam Victims into Spies

Helping Organizations Understand the Risks of Employees Who Become Involved in Relationship Scams

Primary Category: Cyberwar

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

About This Article

In an era of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, Chinese scammers have adopted a new tactic: converting victims into corporate spies. This insidious method begins with scammers contacting victims through emails or social media, establishing trust through seemingly legitimate interactions.

Once trust is secured, the scammers manipulate victims into providing sensitive corporate information under the guise of legitimate activities or lucrative roles. This information, often perceived by the victims as harmless, is then relayed back to the scammers and potentially to state actors, posing significant risks to businesses and institutions.

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2024-06-18T22:16:56-04:00• CYBERWAR & CYBERWARFARE, • MECHANICS OF SCAMS, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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Neurodivergent/Neuroatypical/Autistic Scam Victims And Manipulation In Relationship Scams – 2024

Neurodivergent/Neuroatypical/Autistic Scam Victims and Manipulation in Relationship Scams

Neurodivergent Individuals face special challenges in both Avoiding Scams and Recovering from the Trauma they produce

Protecting Neurodivergent Individuals with Strategies to Avoid Scams and Fraud and How to Recover from Them

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

Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, are particularly vulnerable to scams due to unique cognitive and social challenges. Scammers exploit difficulties in social communication, trust, and decision-making, often targeting these individuals’ need for routine and connection.

Protecting neurodivergent adults requires tailored education about common scams, support networks to aid in decision-making, and practical safeguards like secure digital practices.

Recovery from scams should focus on specialized therapy to address trauma, rebuilding trust, enhancing executive functioning skills, and providing financial counseling.

By understanding these vulnerabilities and implementing comprehensive support, we can help neurodivergent individuals avoid scams and recover effectively if targeted.

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2024-06-10T12:20:20-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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Predurance of Scammers And Their Scam Victim – A Waiting Game – 2024

Predurance of Scammers and their Scam Victim – A Waiting Game

Examining the Unique Role of Patience (Predurance) in Predator (Scammer) Prey (Scam Victim) Interactions

Primary Category: Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

“Predurance” refers to the patience and calculation scammers exhibit while grooming and manipulating their victims, akin to a predator in the wild. This concept captures the deliberate and sustained process through which scammers prepare their victims for financial exploitation.

Scammers begin by identifying vulnerable individuals, establishing initial contact through various channels, and building trust by posing as empathetic and trustworthy figures. They create dependency by offering emotional support and advice, often isolating victims from others to reduce outside intervention.

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2024-06-04T02:51:47-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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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.

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2024-06-02T22:07:53-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EUROPE, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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SCARS ScamsNOW.com Site Privacy Policy – 2024

SCARS ScamsNOW.com Site Privacy Policy

Welcome to ScamsNOW.com, published by the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. (SCARS). This page describes the privacy policy that applies to your use of SCARS products and services through ScamsNOW.com and its mobile applications (the “Sites”). SCARS is referred to herein as “we,” “us,” or “our.”

PLEASE NOTE: There are separate terms and policies regarding SCARS crime victim support services. These Terms of Use apply to the use of this website and related publications and content.

Effective Date Revised: May 25, 2024

This Privacy Policy Describes

  • the information that we receive from you when you interact with us,
  • our practices for processing and protecting the information that we receive, and
  • your choices regarding the collection and processing of your personal information.

Please review this Privacy Policy carefully. By visiting our Site and by submitting information to us, you consent to the collection and processing of your information as described in this Privacy Policy.

We reserve the right to modify or amend the terms of our Privacy Policy from time to time without notice. The amended Privacy Policy will be posted on this page. Your continued use of our Site following the posting of changes to our Privacy Policy will mean you accept those changes.

Information We Collect

When you visit our Site, we collect personal information that you provide to us as well as information we obtain from your use of our Site.

“Personal Information” is information associated with you or that Read More …

2024-06-01T15:32:03-04:00
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SCARS ScamsNOW.com Terms of Use – 2024

SCARS ScamsNOW.com Terms of Use

Welcome to ScamsNOW.com, published by the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. (SCARS). This page describes the terms and conditions that apply to your use of SCARS products and services through ScamsNOW.com and its mobile applications (the “Sites”). SCARS is referred to herein as “we,” “us,” or “our.”

PLEASE NOTE: There are separate terms and policies regarding SCARS crime victim support services. These Terms of Use apply to the use of this website and related publications and content.

USE OF MATERIALS

We or our licensors own all content and materials on ScamsNOW.com, including, without limitation, all trademarks, service marks, trade names, trade dress and copyrights. SCARS grants you free-of-charge access to the content published on the Sites. You agree not to sell or modify such content or materials or reproduce, display, publicly perform, distribute, or otherwise use such content or materials in any way for any public or commercial purpose, in connection with products or services that are not those of SCARS, in any manner that is likely to cause confusion among consumers, that disparages or discredits us, that dilutes the strength of our property or that otherwise infringes our intellectual property rights.

For a list of SCARS Trademarks and more visit: SCARS trademarks, service marks, and other indicia (againstscams.org)

REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND SECURITY

If you signed up for any of SCARS’s services or features that require you to provide personal information, you agree to maintain and update, true, accurate and current information about yourself. If you have Read More …

2024-06-01T15:12:10-04:00
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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.

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2024-06-01T06:52:08-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice, USA|
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The Dangers Of Teen Sextortion Scams – 2024

The Dangers Of Teen Sextortion Scams

An Introduction to Teen Sextortion Scams and the Damage it does!

Primary Category: Scam Basics

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

About This Article

Teen sextortion scams are a significant threat in today’s world, exploiting teens’ vulnerabilities by luring them into fake relationships and extorting money.

These scams cause devastating emotional and psychological impacts, such as psychological trauma, intense fear, anxiety, shame, guilt, depression, and suicidal thoughts, often leading to isolation.

Socially, they damage reputations, disrupt education, and erode trust in relationships.

Financially, victims face monetary losses and jeopardized future financial security.

Legally, these scams expose teens to criminal networks and potential involvement in illegal activities, risking their safety.

To combat this, education, open communication, strong privacy practices, and prompt reporting are crucial for protecting teens from sextortion.

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2024-06-01T00:33:29-04:00• MECHANICS OF SCAMS, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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MasterCard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium – 2024

Mastercard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium

This new Centre will better prepare Europe to Face the Challenges of Cybercrimes and Cyberwarfare

Primary Category: Cybersecurity

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

About This Article

Mastercard has opened its European Cyber Resilience Centre (ECRC) at its European Headquarters in Belgium, highlighting its commitment to combating cyber threats and enhancing resilience in the region. The state-of-the-art centre will improve defenses against cyber threats, expedite response times, and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The ECRC brings together partners from across Europe, including national cyber intelligence centres, law enforcement, and industry bodies. The facility features a Fusion Centre and a Digital Forensics Lab, essential for effective incident response. This initiative reinforces Mastercard’s role in securing the digital ecosystem and protecting consumer and business transactions.

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2024-05-31T03:18:18-04:00• CYBERSECURITY, • CYBERWAR & CYBERWARFARE, 2024, Additional Authors, EUROPE, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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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.

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2024-05-30T06:27:35-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|
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U.S. FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old! – 2024

U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation – FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old!

Since the very early days of the Internet (World Wide Web) the FBI has been collecting data and complaints on criminal behavior and helping victims get help!

Law Enforcement – FBI IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Center

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by ‘Inside the FBI Podcast’

About This Article

The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), established by the FBI in May 2000, is a crucial platform for reporting internet-related crimes such as identity theft, online fraud, phishing, and ransomware. It collects, analyzes, and disseminates cybercrime data, helping identify patterns and emerging threats.

Beyond processing complaints, IC3 enhances public awareness and provides educational resources to prevent cybercrimes. It collaborates with various law enforcement agencies and partners globally to combat cybercrime effectively, making the digital environment safer.

Over its 24 years, IC3 has adapted to evolving threats, continuously working to protect individuals and businesses from sophisticated online scams.

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2024-05-19T17:58:16-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, VIDEO / AUDIO|
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