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Entitlement Mentality And How Scam Victims Often Lose Their Path To Recovery – 2024

Entitlement Mentality And How Scam Victims Often Lose Their Path To Recovery

Helping Scam Victims Avoid a Problematic Mentality that can Stall their Recovery

Scam Victims Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

In unpacking the Entitlement Mentality for Scam Victims we explore the complex psychological phenomenon of entitlement and its impact on scam victims’ ability to heal and move forward with their recovery. The article explores the origins of entitlement, its manifestation in scam victims, and its detrimental effects on mental well-being and interpersonal relationships within support groups.

Drawing on insights from psychology, neuroscience, and victimology, this highlights the role of cognitive biases and social dynamics in perpetuating entitlement and offers strategies for overcoming it.

By employing Read More …

2024-04-14T04:06:15-04:00April 14th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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Understanding Psychological Trauma: Insights For Scam Victims From Carl Jung – 2024

Understanding Psychological Trauma: Insights from Carl Jung

Insights into Scam Victims’ Trauma

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  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.
•  Some information extracted from multiple sources

About This Article

Carl Jung’s analytical psychology offers profound insights into the nature of emotional and psychological trauma. According to Jung, trauma disrupts the delicate balance of the psyche, activating the unconscious and bringing forth repressed emotions and unresolved conflicts.

Jungian analysis emphasizes the importance of facing and integrating the shadow aspects of the personality to achieve wholeness and healing. In the context of scams and scam victims, Jung’s perspective highlights the psychological impact of deceptive schemes, exploring Read More …

2024-04-14T02:31:26-04:00April 14th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , |
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Gift Card Gangs From China Operating Inside The United States – 2024

Gift Card Gangs From China Operating Inside The United States

How Organized Crime Gangs from China are Operating inside the U.S.

Authors:
•  Craig Silverman and Peter Elkind, ProPublica
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Federal authorities are investigating the involvement of Chinese organized crime rings in gift card fraud schemes targeting American consumers, launching a task force named “Project Red Hook” to combat this growing threat. The initiative focuses on preventing “card draining,” where thieves exploit stolen or altered card numbers to siphon money before legitimate owners can use them.

Over the past 18 months, law enforcement has arrested about 100 individuals for card draining, with the majority being Chinese nationals or Chinese Americans. The schemes, estimated to have stolen hundreds of millions of dollars, highlight the need for industry collaboration and heightened security measures.

Read Read More …

2024-04-12T13:14:37-04:00April 12th, 2024|Categories: • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, ProPublica, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: , , , , |
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New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone – 2024

New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone

Congress appears ready for Comprehensive Privacy Legislation covering all American Businesses (except Small Businesses)

Policy & Regulations

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

About This Article

The New Bipartisan Privacy Legislation in the U.S., the American Privacy Rights Act, backed by key lawmakers, including Senator Maria Cantwell and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, introduces substantial cybersecurity mandates affecting various sectors of the economy.

Cantwell’s support marks a departure from previous failed attempts at comprehensive privacy laws, emphasizing the need to make privacy a consumer right.

Amid growing concerns over surveillance capitalism and state-level privacy regulations, the bill mandates corporations to uphold reasonable data security practices, encompassing confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility. It outlines cybersecurity measures like vulnerability assessments and bug reporting while granting consumers rights to access, correction, and opt-out of targeted advertising.

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2024-04-11T20:29:01-04:00April 11th, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: , , , |
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INTERPOL Financial Fraud Report: The Global Threat Expands Boosted By Technology – 2024

INTERPOL Financial Fraud Report: The Global Threat Expands Boosted By Technology

Organized Crime Groups using more Human Trafficking Victims to carry out Crypto-Investment (‘pig-butchering’) and other Scams

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

About This Article

The recent INTERPOL assessment on global financial fraud underscores the growing threat posed by technology-enabled organized crime groups targeting victims worldwide.

Utilizing tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI), large language models, and cryptocurrencies, these groups orchestrate sophisticated fraud campaigns with minimal technical skills and at low costs. Secretary General Jürgen Stock warns of the epidemic scale of financial fraud, emphasizing the need for urgent action and enhanced information sharing.

The report reveals prevalent fraud trends such as investment fraud and romance fraud, necessitating multi-stakeholder partnerships to develop effective counter strategies. With financial fraud increasingly perpetrated by transnational networks, law enforcement faces the challenge of strengthening data collection and analysis to Read More …

2024-04-11T07:54:11-04:00April 11th, 2024|Categories: • CRIMINOLOGY, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, INTERPOL, SCARS Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|Tags: , , , |
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Meta Platforms (Facebook & Instagram) Caught Lying About The Number of Real Users To Advertisers 2024

Meta Platforms (Facebook & Instagram) Caught Lying About The Number of Real Users To Advertisers

Courts Rule They Can Be Sued for Misrepresentation (a.k.a. Fraud)

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  By Jonathan Stempel, Reuters

About This Article

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in a 2-1 decision that Meta Platforms, owner of Facebook and Instagram, must face a class-action lawsuit filed by advertisers. The lawsuit alleges Meta overcharged advertisers by fraudulently inflating the potential reach of their ads, using metrics based on social media accounts rather than actual people, leading to potential viewer overestimations of up to 400%.

While the court allowed advertisers to sue for damages as a group, it decertified a separate class seeking injunctive relief. Advertisers estimate Meta may owe over $7 billion in damages. Meta, with ads generating most of its revenue, has yet to comment.

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2024-04-08T17:16:16-04:00April 8th, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, NEWS, Reuters, SCARS Editorial Team|Tags: , , , , , , , , |
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Mindfulness Breathing For Scam Victims Recovery 2024

Mindfulness Breathing For Scam Victims Recovery

Helping Scam Survivors experience the benefits of Mindfulness in their Recovery Journey

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

Mindfulness breathing exercises offer scam victims a pathway to recovery by addressing the psychological and emotional toll of their traumatic experiences. These exercises help to alleviate stress, regulate emotions, and foster self-awareness, concentration, and resilience.

By focusing on the present moment and observing the breath without judgment, victims can cultivate a sense of inner calm and compassion towards themselves. The step-by-step guide to mindfulness breathing includes finding a comfortable position, relaxing the body, bringing awareness to the breath, and embracing distractions without judgment.

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2024-04-07T19:49:10-04:00April 7th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • SCAM VICTIM HEALTH, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: , |
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‘I Just Want To Forget It’ – Denial & Avoidance Are Natural But Will Not Help Scam Victims On Their Path To Recovery From Scams – 2024

‘I Just Want To Forget It’

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

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

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

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Based on research by the United States National Institute of Mental Health

About This Article

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

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

2024-04-04T11:58:48-04:00April 4th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: , , , , , |
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WARNING: Scam Victims Exploited By The News Media – 2024

WARNING: Scam Victims Exploited By The News Media

Scam Victims Must be Very Careful when asked by News Organizations to Tell Their Story

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

About This Article

In today’s media landscape, the exploitation of scam victims remains a distressing reality, perpetuating harm rather than offering support or understanding. Sensationalized reporting often takes precedence over sensitivity and empathy, leaving victims feeling marginalized and invalidated.

From local news to exposure daytime talk shows, to the evening news, and streaming crime series, the pursuit of sensationalism prevails, with journalists prioritizing dramatic anecdotes over the devastating impact of these crimes. Victim blaming and shaming further compound the issue, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and biases.

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2024-04-03T17:24:29-04:00April 2nd, 2024|Categories: • ADVOCACY / POLICY, 2024, EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, SCARS Editorial Team|Tags: , , , |
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FTC New Impersonation Scams Rule Effective Today – 2024

FTC New Impersonation Scams Rule Effective Today

Government taking action Against Scams!

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

About This Article

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

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

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

The Laws Of War Must Apply In Cyberspace

A Cyberwarfare Insight

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

About This Article

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

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

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

China Encourages Armed Offensive Against Myanmar Over Slave Scam Centres

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

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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2024-04-01T10:18:42-04:00April 1st, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, MYANMAR, SCARS Editorial Team, United Nations|Tags: , , , , |
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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.

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2024-03-31T19:50:34-04:00March 31st, 2024|Categories: • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, CHINA (PRC), NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice, USA|Tags: , , , |
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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,

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2024-03-31T11:43:32-04:00March 31st, 2024|Categories: • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, UK, UK Government, VIDEO / AUDIO|Tags: , , , , , , |
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Scam Victims Avoid Or Escape The Aftermath Of Scams – How Denial And Distraction Avoid Confronting Reality – 2024

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

Helping Scam Victims Understand Negative Behaviors that can affect their recovery

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

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

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

Transference And Emotional Danger After The Scam

Understanding The Emotional Transference That Can Happen After The Scam Ends

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

Understanding the Risks to Scam Victims after the Scam Ends!

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

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

An Investment Scam Victim’s Story

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

About This Article

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

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

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

Substance Abuse Susceptibility And Scam Victims

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

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

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

‘Mental Defeat’ – The Unique Condition Of Giving Up

A Complete Breakdown of Resilience – Beyond Denial and Resignation

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

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

About This Article

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

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

In Read More …

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

The Uniqueness Of Scam Victims Or Fraud Victims

Why Scam Victims are different than other type of Crime Victims

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About This Article

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

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

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2024-03-20T08:29:55-04:00March 20th, 2024|Categories: • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: , , , , |
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