DJINN – History’s Original Scammers

The Djinn as Tricksters: A Lesson for Recognizing Scams for those of the Muslim Faith

Primary Category: Philosophy of Scam Victim Recovery

Intended Audience: Scam Victims-Survivors / Family & Friends / General Public / Others

Authors:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Based on the Scholarship of Abu al-Hasan al-Ash’ari and Ibn Taymiyyah

About This Article

The concept of Djinn as tricksters in Islamic tradition provides a valuable framework for understanding scams and fraud. Islamic teachings depict Djinn as beings with free will, capable of deception, illusions, and manipulation—traits that closely mirror the tactics used by modern scammers. Just as trickster Djinn prey on human desires, fears, and weaknesses, scammers exploit trust, greed, and emotional vulnerabilities to deceive their victims. By drawing parallels between the deceptive nature of Djinn and the strategies employed by fraudsters, Muslims can gain a culturally and religiously relevant perspective on scam awareness.

The Quran warns against dishonesty and urges believers to verify information, think critically, and avoid being misled—guidance that remains essential in today’s digital world. Recognizing scams through the lens of Djinn trickery reinforces the importance of skepticism, wisdom, and faith in protecting oneself from deception. Ultimately, Islamic teachings emphasize personal responsibility, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of truth, offering a strong moral foundation for scam prevention and recovery.

The Djinn as Tricksters: A Lesson for Recognizing Scams for Those of the Muslim Faith

The concept of Djinn (Jinn or Genie) in Islamic tradition has long been associated with mystery, deception, and trickery. While some Djinn are benevolent or neutral, many stories in Islamic folklore depict them as cunning tricksters who use deception, illusions, and temptation to lead people astray. These narratives can serve as valuable allegories for understanding modern scams, and helping Muslims recognize the deceptive tactics used by fraudsters and cybercriminals.

In Islamic tradition, Djinn are supernatural beings created by God from smokeless fire, distinct from humans and angels. They have free will, meaning they can choose between good and evil, and some are known for deceptive behavior. Stories in folklore often portray certain Djinn as tricksters—clever entities who mislead humans for their own gain or amusement. For example, a Djinn might promise wealth or power, only to twist the outcome, leaving the person worse off. These tales, found in works like the “One Thousand and One Nights”, emphasize the Djinn’s ability to exploit human greed, naivety, or desperation.

This concept can be useful for explaining scams to Muslims in a relatable way. Just as a trickster Djinn might lure someone with false promises, scammers use similar tactics—offering quick money, fake investments, or urgent pleas for help to deceive people. The Djinn’s cunning mirrors how scammers manipulate trust or emotions, like posing as a friend or authority figure. By framing scams as modern-day trickery akin to a Djinn’s schemes, it ties into a familiar cultural narrative: be cautious, question offers that seem too good to be true, and rely on wisdom and faith to avoid being fooled. It’s a practical lesson—don’t let greed or haste cloud judgment, because deceivers, like tricky Djinn, prey on those who don’t think twice.

By examining the role of the Djinn as deceivers, we can draw parallels to how scammers operate today—manipulating emotions, preying on desires, and exploiting vulnerabilities. Understanding these similarities can offer a culturally relevant way for those of the Muslim faith to approach scam awareness and self-protection through the lens of their religious and moral teachings.

Types of Djinn Described in the Quran and Islamic Teachings

In Islamic tradition, Djinn (Jinn) are supernatural beings created by Allah from smokeless fire (Surah Al-Hijr 15:27). They exist in a parallel unseen world and, like humans, possess free will, meaning they can be righteous, neutral, or evil. The Quran and Hadith provide insight into their nature, abilities, and different classifications.

Below are the main types of Djinn as described in the Quran and Islamic teachings:

The Believing Djinn (Muslim Djinn)

Description:

Not all Djinn are evil. Some submit to Allah and follow Islam, just like humans. These Djinn are righteous and obey divine laws. The Quran mentions their acceptance of the message of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) when they heard him recite the Quran.

Quranic Reference:

“Say, (O Prophet), ‘It has been revealed to me that a group of Jinn once listened in and said, ‘Indeed, we have heard a wondrous Qur’an, which guides to righteousness, so we believed in it. And we will never associate anyone with our Lord.’” (Surah Al-Jinn 72:1-2)

Characteristics:

• • • They pray, fast, and obey Allah like human Muslims.
    • They stay away from causing harm and may even assist righteous humans.
    • They reject Shaytan’s (Satan’s) influence and try to do good.

The Disbelieving Djinn (Kafir Djinn)

Description:

These Djinn reject Allah’s guidance and live in defiance of divine commands. They are often associated with causing harm, deception, and leading humans away from righteousness.

Quranic Reference:

“Among us are those who have submitted (to Allah), and others who have deviated from the right course. And whoever has submitted—those have sought out the right guidance. But as for the deviators, they will be fuel for Hell.” (Surah Al-Jinn 72:14-15)

Characteristics:

• • • They deceive humans into sin and false beliefs.
    • Many work under the command of Iblis (Satan).
    • They may pretend to be gods, spirits, or the dead, leading people into idolatry or sorcery.

Shayateen (The Satanic Djinn)

Description:

The Shayateen (devils) are the worst type of disbelieving Djinn. They follow Iblis (Satan), who refused to bow to Adam and was cast out of Allah’s mercy.

Quranic Reference:

“And indeed, We created you, then We fashioned you, then We said to the angels, ‘Prostrate before Adam.’ So they prostrated, except for Iblis. He was not of those who prostrated.” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:11)

“And [mention] when We said to the angels, ‘Prostrate to Adam,’ and they prostrated, except for Iblis. He was of the jinn and departed from the command of his Lord.” (Surah Al-Kahf 18:50)

Characteristics:

• • • They work against Allah’s plan, seeking to corrupt and mislead humans.
    • They spread lies, falsehoods, and doubt in people’s hearts.
    • They whisper evil thoughts (waswasa) to encourage sin.
    • Many sorcerers and occultists attempt to summon them for power, but they deceive even those who serve them.

Ifrit (The Powerful & Rebellious Djinn)

Description:

The Ifrit are a special class of strong and rebellious Djinn, often associated with causing destruction, chaos, and supernatural strength. They are among the most dangerous types of Djinn.

Quranic Reference:

“An Ifrit from the Jinn said, ‘I will bring it (the throne of the Queen of Sheba) to you before you rise from your place, and indeed, I am strong and trustworthy for this task.’” (Surah An-Naml 27:39)

Characteristics:

• • • They have great physical strength and can move objects at supernatural speeds.
    • Some are highly intelligent and cunning.
    • They are difficult to control, even by sorcerers or magicians.
    • They often act independently, unlike Shayateen, who are more organized under Iblis.

Marid (The Most Powerful & Arrogant Djinn)

Description:

The Marid are among the oldest, largest, and most arrogant Djinn. They are known for their defiance of authority and strong resistance to control. Some Islamic traditions link them to oceanic and water-based Djinn.

Characteristics:

• • • They are incredibly powerful but also highly rebellious.
    • They are often described as giants or monstrous beings.
    • Marid Djinn are especially difficult to summon or control through magic.
    • They are believed to be more solitary, acting independently rather than in groups.

Qareen (The Personal Companion Djinn)

Description:

Every human is assigned a Qareen, a personal Djinn who whispers evil or good thoughts, depending on whether they are righteous or wicked.

Quranic Reference:

“And the companion [Qareen] will say, ‘This is what is with me, prepared [for judgment].’” (Surah Qaf 50:23)

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “There is none among you but has been assigned a companion from the Jinn.” They (the Companions) said: “Even you, O Messenger of Allah?” He said: “Even me, but Allah helped me against him, so he has submitted, and he only commands me to do good.” (Sahih Muslim 2814)

Characteristics:

• • They whisper thoughts into a person’s mind—either for good or evil.
  • Most Qareen encourage sin and doubt, but a righteous person’s Qareen can be tamed.
  • The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s Qareen was converted to Islam, making him pure.

The Trickster Nature of the Djinn in Islamic Folklore

Djinn are spiritual beings created from smokeless fire, as mentioned in the Quran (Surah Al-Hijr 15:27). They exist in an unseen world parallel to that of humans, with free will that allows them to be good, evil, or deceptive. Many folk stories from Islamic culture describe Djinn engaging in trickery, using illusions to deceive humans for their own benefit or amusement.

Some key characteristics of trickster Djinn include:

Shapeshifting & Disguises – Djinn are often said to take on different appearances, impersonating trusted figures to deceive people. This mirrors scammers pretending to be loved ones, authority figures, or businesses to manipulate their victims.

Whispering Doubts & Temptations – In Islamic belief, Shayateen (evil Djinn) whisper doubts and false promises into the hearts of humans, much like scammers convince victims of fake opportunities, fake love, or fabricated emergencies.

Exploiting Human Weaknesses – Whether it’s greed, loneliness, desperation, or overconfidence, Djinn are known for targeting people’s vulnerabilities—just as scammers do when they manipulate victims through emotional appeals.

Creating Illusions – Trickster Djinn create illusions to make something false appear real, much like scammers falsify identities, create fake websites, or forge documents to build trust.

By recognizing these tactics, Muslims can apply the wisdom from these stories to modern scams—understanding that fraudsters use the same age-old deceptions as the Djinn.

Parallels Between Djinn Trickery and Scammer Tactics

To help Muslims understand scams, it can be useful to compare common scam methods to well-known Djinn behaviors in Islamic teachings:

Romance Scams & The Djinn of Love & Seduction

In some Islamic folklore, “Djinn are said to seduce humans, appearing as beautiful lovers to enchant and deceive them”. They manipulate emotions, gain trust, and sometimes even convince humans to give them wealth, loyalty, or their soul.

Modern Parallel: Romance scammers operate in the same way, pretending to be loving partners online, luring victims into emotional and financial manipulation. Victims may feel “possessed” by their emotions, unable to break free from the scam, just as someone might be under the influence of a Djinn’s enchantment.

Islamic Teaching: Islam warns against blind trust and emotional manipulation. Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6) advises, “O you who have believed, if an evil-doer brings you news, verify it, lest you harm a people in ignorance and become regretful over what you have done.” This can be applied to online relationships—always verify before trusting.

Investment & Wealth Scams – The Greedy Djinn

Some stories tell of Djinn leading people to false treasures—gold that turns to dust, promises of wealth that end in ruin. These Djinn play on greed and the desire for quick riches.

Modern Parallel: Ponzi schemes, fake investments, cryptocurrency frauds, and lottery scams all promise great wealth with little effort, just like the Djinn of deception in old stories.

Islamic Teaching: Islam warns against unethical or deceptive wealth, as seen in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188): “And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].” This reminds believers to be cautious of too-good-to-be-true financial deals.

Impersonation & Identity Theft – Djinn as Shape-Shifters

Djinn are known to take human form, appearing as trusted individuals to deceive or test people. Some Islamic traditions speak of Djinn impersonating family members, leading people to make dangerous choices.

Modern Parallel: Scammers pretend to be government officials, religious leaders, or even loved ones (such as in grandparent scams or CEO fraud). They use fake voices and profiles to deceive.

Islamic Teaching: Islam teaches that deception is a trait of the hypocrites. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) warned, “The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted, he betrays that trust.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 33). This highlights the importance of vigilance and skepticism when dealing with unknown claims.

Phishing & Fake Emails – The Whispering Djinn (Waswasa)

In Islam, Shaytan and deceptive Djinn are known to whisper lies into people’s minds, tricking them into actions that lead to harm. They convince humans to trust false ideas, desires, or fears.

Modern Parallel: Email phishing, fraudulent text messages, and fake phone calls whisper digital lies, convincing victims to click dangerous links, share sensitive information, or send money.

Islamic Teaching: The Quran warns against deception and urges believers to seek truth and patience: “And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—about all those [one] will be questioned.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:36). This emphasizes verifying information before acting.

How Muslims Can Protect Themselves from Scams Using Islamic Teachings

By viewing scams through the lens of Djinn trickery, Muslims can apply religious wisdom to protect themselves from fraud:

Seek Knowledge & Verify Information – The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged seeking knowledge and critical thinking. Before believing in any financial offer, relationship, or request for help, verify the source.

Avoid Greed & Quick Wealth – Islam emphasizes ethical earnings. Avoid investment schemes that promise instant riches without effort, as they often lead to loss.

Recognize Emotional Manipulation – Just as the Djinn exploit human emotions, scammers prey on loneliness, fear, and urgency. If someone online rushes you into making decisions, step back and think critically.

Trust but Verify Loved Ones – In Islamic teachings, even if a Djinn appears as a familiar face, one must test their truthfulness. Similarly, verify calls or messages from “relatives” asking for urgent financial help.

Pray for Wisdom & Discernment – Many Muslims recite Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas to seek protection from unseen evils. Likewise, one can pray for guidance in making financial and emotional decisions.

The Quran’s View on Fraud and Deception

Fraud and deception are strongly condemned in the Quran and Islamic teachings. Islam emphasizes honesty, justice, and fairness, and any form of cheating, dishonesty, or fraudulent behavior is seen as a serious sin that leads to both worldly and spiritual consequences. The Quran provides clear guidance on ethical conduct in trade, relationships, and personal dealings, warning against deceitful behavior and emphasizing accountability before Allah (SWT).

Fraud and Deception Are Forbidden in Islam

The Quran explicitly prohibits fraud, lying, and deceit. Cheating, misleading others, and engaging in fraudulent transactions are seen as major moral and ethical violations.

Quranic Verses Against Fraud:

“Woe to those who give less [than due], those who, when they take a measure from people, take in full, but when they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss.” (Surah Al-Mutaffifin 83:1-3)
→ This verse condemns those who cheat in business—taking full measure when they receive but giving less when they sell. It applies broadly to all forms of dishonesty and fraud.

“And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:188)
→ This verse prohibits any unjust consumption of wealth, including fraud, scams, bribery, and corruption.

“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:58)
→ Fraud is an act of breaking trust, which is strictly forbidden in Islam.

Deception and Lying Are Condemned

Fraud and deception often involve lying, manipulating, or misleading others for personal gain. The Quran strongly warns against falsehood and deceit.

Quranic Verses Against Deception and Lying:

“And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:42)
→ This verse warns against misrepresentation and dishonesty, common tactics in fraud and scams.

“Indeed, Allah does not guide one who is a transgressor and a liar.” (Surah Ghafir 40:28)
→ Deception through lies is a great sin that leads a person away from the guidance of Allah.

“And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of Repentance and Merciful.” (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12)
→ Fraudsters often spy, deceive, and take advantage of others. This verse warns against such behavior.

Business Ethics: Honest Trade vs. Fraudulent Transactions

Islam has strict guidelines for business dealings, emphasizing fairness and transparency. Fraudulent transactions, scams, and financial deception are major sins.

Quranic Verses About Honest Trade vs. Fraudulent:

“O you who have believed, do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:29)
→ Transactions must be honest and fair; any form of fraud, misrepresentation, or coercion is prohibited.

“And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak, be just, even if it concerns a near relative; and fulfill the covenant of Allah. This He has instructed you that you may remember.” (Surah Al-An’am 6:152)
→ This verse emphasizes honesty in trade, warning against cheating in weights, measures, and financial dealings.

“Do not reduce people’s goods, and do not commit abuse in the land, spreading corruption.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara 26:183)
→ Fraud contributes to corruption and social harm, which is condemned in Islam.

Scams and Financial Fraud: Stealing Through Deception

Scams involve taking money unjustly through lies and deceit. The Quran condemns any form of unjust enrichment, warning of severe consequences.

Quranic Verses Against Scams and Financial Fraud:

“And those who unjustly consume the wealth of orphans, they are consuming nothing but fire into their bellies, and they will be burned in a Blaze.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:10)
→ This applies to financial fraud, scams, and exploiting vulnerable people.

“And do not deceive each other nor betray one another.” (Surah Al-Anfal 8:27)
→ Fraud is a betrayal of trust, which is strictly forbidden in Islam.

The Fate of Fraudsters in the Hereafter

The Quran warns that those who engage in fraud, deception, and dishonesty will face severe punishment in the Hereafter.

Quranic Verses About the Fate of Fraudsters:

“On the Day of Judgment, their deceit will be of no benefit to them, and they will be among the losers.” (Surah Yunus 10:30)
→ Fraud may bring temporary gain, but it leads to permanent loss in the Hereafter.

“And do not conceal testimony, for whoever conceals it—his heart is indeed sinful, and Allah is All-Knowing of what you do.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:283)
→ Fraudsters who lie, hide the truth, or cheat others will be held accountable.

“Indeed, those who consume the wealth of others unjustly will be in the Hellfire, where they will reside forever.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:161)
→ Fraud is a major sin that leads to severe consequences in the afterlife.

Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness

While fraud is a serious sin, Islam encourages repentance for those who sincerely seek to change their ways.

Quranic Verses About Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness:

“But whoever repents after his wrongdoing and reforms, indeed, Allah will turn to him in forgiveness. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:39)
→ Fraudsters who repent, return what they stole, and change their behavior can be forgiven.

“And establish prayer and give zakah, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves—you will find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah sees what you do.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:110)
→ Sincere repentance includes seeking forgiveness, making amends, and engaging in good deeds.

Islam’s Strong Stance Against Fraud

The Quran makes it very clear that fraud, deception, and dishonesty are forbidden (haram) and lead to severe consequences. Whether in business, personal dealings, or financial transactions, Islam commands honesty, transparency, and fairness.

Key Takeaways:

• • • Fraud and deception are strictly prohibited in Islam—they violate trust and justice.
    • Lying, cheating, and stealing through deception lead to divine punishment.
    • Islamic business ethics demand honesty, fair trade, and transparency.
    • Fraudsters will face severe consequences in the Hereafter unless they sincerely repent.
    • Repentance and making amends can lead to Allah’s forgiveness.

The Quran’s guidance serves as a moral and ethical framework to prevent fraud, promote justice, and ensure that society operates with honesty and integrity.

The Quran on Forgiving the Innocent for Being Deceived by Others

The Quran strongly emphasizes justice, fairness, and personal responsibility, recognizing that people can be deceived, manipulated, or misled by others. Islam acknowledges that being deceived does not make a person sinful or guilty, especially when their intentions were pure. Instead of blaming the victim, the Quran encourages mercy, forgiveness, and guidance for those who have been tricked or misled.

Innocence of Those Who Are Deceived

The Quran differentiates between intentional wrongdoing and being deceived by dishonest people. A person who is deceived is not considered guilty of sin as long as they acted in good faith.

“Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake…” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:286)
→ This verse acknowledges that human beings make mistakes, including being deceived, and seeks Allah’s forgiveness for errors made unknowingly.

“And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another.” (Surah Al-An’am 6:164)
→ This establishes the principle that each person is responsible for their own actions. If someone is deceived, the blame falls on the deceiver, not the deceived.

Mercy for Those Who Are Misled

The Quran and Islamic teachings promote forgiveness for those who have been deceived, provided they were unaware of the fraud and did not act with bad intentions.

“And We did not send any messenger except in the language of his people to clarify for them. Then Allah leaves astray whom He wills and guides whom He wills. And He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:4)
→ This suggests that those who have not been properly informed or are misled are not automatically condemned.

“And Allah wants to lighten your burden, and mankind was created weak.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:28)
→ This acknowledges that humans are vulnerable and can fall victim to deception. Rather than punishment, Islam calls for compassion toward those who have been deceived.

Forgiveness and Repentance After Being Deceived

Islam encourages seeking forgiveness and learning from mistakes. Victims of deception are urged to turn to Allah, seek His guidance, and move forward without shame or self-blame.

“And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by mistake], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins—and who can forgive sins except Allah? And [those who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:135)
→ This verse reassures those who have been deceived or made mistakes that Allah’s mercy is always available.

“Except for those who repent, correct themselves, and make [the truth] evident. Those—I will accept their repentance, and I am the Accepting of Repentance, the Merciful.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:160)
→ Victims of deception should seek understanding, learn from the experience, and trust that Allah’s mercy is greater than any mistake.

The Deceiver Bears Full Responsibility

The Quran places full blame on the deceivers, not on the people who unknowingly fall for their tricks.

“Thus We have placed upon the hearts of the criminals a covering so they will not understand it, and in their ears is deafness. And if you invite them to guidance, they will never be guided.” (Surah Al-Kahf 18:57)
→ Those who deliberately deceive others are held accountable in the sight of Allah.

“Indeed, those who misguide others from the way of Allah and seek to make it seem deviant while they disbelieve in the Hereafter—those have gone far astray.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:12)
→ This warns scammers, fraudsters, and deceivers that their actions are a grave sin and that they will face divine justice.

The Prophet’s Example: Forgiving the Deceived

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consistently demonstrated mercy and understanding toward those who had been misled by others. He did not blame victims for being deceived but instead offered guidance and support.

When Muslims were tricked or betrayed in treaties, the Prophet did not blame them for trusting others; he held the deceivers accountable and sought justice.

Forgiveness and Guidance for the Deceived

The Quran makes it clear that being deceived does not make someone sinful or guilty. Victims of fraud, manipulation, or scams are not responsible for the actions of the deceivers. Instead, Islam encourages:

Forgiveness and Mercy – Allah does not blame those who are deceived unintentionally.

Personal Growth – Learning from deception and seeking wisdom is encouraged.

Accountability for the Deceivers – Those who engage in fraud will face consequences.

Scam victims and those who have been misled should not blame themselves but instead seek support, learn from their experience, and trust that Allah’s justice and mercy are greater than any deception.

Turning Faith into Scam Awareness

Scammers, like the deceptive Djinn, use illusions, persuasion, and false promises to manipulate people. By recognizing the parallels between Islamic teachings on deception and modern fraud tactics, Muslims can develop a faith-based approach to scam awareness. Just as believers are encouraged to question, verify, and resist whispers of deception, they should approach scams with the same level of caution and discernment.

Understanding scams through Islamic allegory makes the danger more relatable and real. By applying faith, wisdom, and rational thinking, Muslims can protect themselves and their communities from modern-day tricksters—just as they would protect themselves from the deceptive Djinn of old.

Lessons from Djinn Stories for Scam Awareness

Understanding the different types of Djinn in Islamic teachings can also help Muslims recognize deception in real life, including scams and fraud:

Like Shayateen, scammers whisper false promises—offering wealth, love, or security, only to exploit victims.

Like the Ifrit, scammers use power and confidence to persuade victims into acting quickly.

Like the Marid, scammers are arrogant and resist control, always seeking to dominate and manipulate.

Like the Qareen, scammers make people doubt their instincts, leading them to ignore red flags.

By recognizing these tactics, Muslims can use their faith to stay vigilant, verify information, and protect themselves from modern deception.

“And do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—about all those [one] will be questioned.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:36)

References

A well-known Islamic scholar who wrote extensively about Djinn was Abu al-Hasan al-Ash’ari, a prominent theologian born in 874 CE in Basra, Iraq. He founded the Ash’arite school of theology, which became one of the most influential in Sunni Islam. Al-Ash’ari didn’t focus solely on Djinn but addressed them within his broader discussions on Islamic cosmology and the nature of created beings. He affirmed their existence as real, free-willed entities made from smokeless fire, as described in the Quran (Surah Ar-Rahman 55:15), and explored their place in the universe alongside humans and angels. His work emphasized that Djinn, like humans, are accountable for their actions and subject to divine judgment, reinforcing orthodox Islamic beliefs about them.

Another notable figure is Ibn Taymiyyah, a 13th-century scholar born in 1263 CE in Harran (modern-day Turkey). He was a prolific writer and a key figure in the Hanbali school of thought. In his writings, such as Majmu‘ al-Fatawa, he discussed Djinn in detail, addressing their abilities, interactions with humans, and theological significance. He argued against superstitions surrounding Djinn, insisting that their existence and powers are limited by God’s will. Ibn Taymiyyah also tackled practical issues, like possession and exorcism, offering guidance rooted in Quran and Hadith to counter folk beliefs.

Both scholars shaped how Muslims understand Djinn, blending scriptural evidence with rational analysis. Al-Ash’ari laid foundational theological groundwork, while Ibn Taymiyyah provided practical and doctrinal clarity, making them standout figures on this topic.

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Important Information for New Scam Victims

• Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
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If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines

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At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.

Statement About Victim Blaming

Some of our articles discuss various aspects of victims. This is both about better understanding victims (the science of victimology) and their behaviors and psychology. This helps us to educate victims/survivors about why these crimes happened and to not blame themselves, better develop recovery programs, and to help victims avoid scams in the future. At times this may sound like blaming the victim, but it does not blame scam victims, we are simply explaining the hows and whys of the experience victims have.

These articles, about the Psychology of Scams or Victim Psychology – meaning that all humans have psychological or cognitive characteristics in common that can either be exploited or work against us – help us all to understand the unique challenges victims face before, during, and after scams, fraud, or cybercrimes. These sometimes talk about some of the vulnerabilities the scammers exploit. Victims rarely have control of them or are even aware of them, until something like a scam happens and then they can learn how their mind works and how to overcome these mechanisms.

Articles like these help victims and others understand these processes and how to help prevent them from being exploited again or to help them recover more easily by understanding their post-scam behaviors. Learn more about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org

SCARS Resources:

• Getting Started: ScamVictimsSupport.org
• FREE enrollment in the SCARS Institute training programs for scam victims SCARSeducation.org
• For New Victims of Relationship Scams newvictim.AgainstScams.org
• Subscribe to SCARS Newsletter newsletter.againstscams.org
• Sign up for SCARS professional support & recovery groups, visit support.AgainstScams.org
• Find competent trauma counselors or therapists, visit counseling.AgainstScams.org
• Become a SCARS Member and get free counseling benefits, visit membership.AgainstScams.org
• Report each and every crime, learn how to at reporting.AgainstScams.org
• Learn more about Scams & Scammers at RomanceScamsNOW.com and ScamsNOW.com
• Learn more about the Psychology of Scams and Scam Victims: ScamPsychology.org
• Self-Help Books for Scam Victims are at shop.AgainstScams.org
• Worldwide Crisis Hotlines: International Suicide Hotlines – OpenCounseling : OpenCounseling
• Campaign To End Scam Victim Blaming – 2024 (scamsnow.com)

Psychology Disclaimer:

All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only

The information provided in this and other SCARS articles are intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.

Note about Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices have the potential to create psychological distress for some individuals. Please consult a mental health professional or experienced meditation instructor for guidance should you encounter difficulties.

While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.

Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.

If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.

Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here

If you are in crisis, feeling desperate, or in despair please call 988 or your local crisis hotline.

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