ScamsNOW!

The SCARS Institute Magazine about Scam Victims-Survivors, Scams, Fraud & Cybercrime

SCARS Institute – 12 Years of Service to Scam Victims & Survivors – 2025/2026

Authors:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist, Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Polymath, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Debby Montgomery Johnson, President and CEO of BenfoComplete.com, Online Scam/Fraud Survivors Advocate, Author, Keynote Speaker, Trainer, Podcast Host, USAF Veteran, Chair and Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Janina Morcinek – Certified and Licensed Educator, European Regional Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

Author Biographies Below

About This Article

The SCARS Institute, marking its 12th year of service, has established itself as a global leader in supporting scam victims, offering a comprehensive suite of resources and programs. Founded as a nonprofit, the SCARS Institute provides advocacy, education, and psychological insights to aid victims in their recovery and rebuilding process. Through initiatives such as the Scam Survivor’s School, the SCARS Institute empowers victims with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate their healing journey. The organization’s dedication to understanding the psychological impact of scams is evident in its Manual of Scam Psychology, a resource that guides both victims and advocates. The SCARS Institute also partners with global entities to enhance its mission and reach, ensuring that support and recovery services are accessible to victims worldwide. By fostering a sense of community and connection among survivors, the SCARS Institute recognizes the importance of social support in the healing process. As it looks to the future, the SCARS Institute remains committed to innovating, adapting, and expanding its efforts, driven by a deep commitment to the well-being and empowerment of scam victims.

The SCARS Institute at 12 Years: A Decade and Beyond of Dedication to Scam Victims and Survivors

As the SCARS Institute enters its 12th year of service, it stands as a beacon of hope and support for scam victims and survivors worldwide. Founded on the principles of advocacy, education, and psychological understanding, SCARS has been at the forefront of the fight against scams, fraud, and cybercrime, and the development of education and recovery pathways for scam victims. Their comprehensive approach to victim support and recovery through education has had a significant impact on over 12 million lives, offering a roadmap for healing and resilience in the face of betrayal and deception.

A Legacy of Advocacy and Support

From its inception, the SCARS Institute has been committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of scam victims. Recognizing the unique challenges and traumas faced by those who have fallen prey to scams, SCARS has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, challenge stigmas, and promote policies that protect and support victims. Their advocacy efforts have been instrumental in shaping the global conversation around scam victimization, highlighting the need for compassion, understanding, and effective support systems.

One of the cornerstones of the SCARS Institute’s advocacy work is its dedication to providing real knowledge and help to victims. Through their website www.ScamVictimsSupport.org, the SCARS Institute offers a wealth of resources, including articles, guides, and support knowledge, designed to empower victims with the information they need to navigate the complexities of recovery. This commitment to education and support is a testament to the SCARS Institute’s unwavering dedication to the well-being of scam victims.

Pioneering the Psychology of Scams

Understanding all of the psychological aspects of scams is crucial for effective victim support and recovery. The SCARS Institute has been at the forefront of this understanding, developing its ‘Manual of Scam Psychology,’ available at www.ScamPsychology.org. This comprehensive resource explains the intricacies of scam psychology, both from the perspective of the criminals’ use of psychological tactics to manipulate and control their victims, as well as the vulnerabilities they exploit, and the emotional and psychological impacts on victims.

The Manual of Scam Psychology is more than just a theoretical exploration; it is a practical tool for victims, survivors, advocates, professionals, and law enforcement. By providing deep insights into the psychological mechanisms at play, the SCARS Institute empowers individuals to recognize the signs of manipulation, understand victim responses, and develop strategies for support, healing, and resilience. This psychological framework is a vital component of the SCARS Institute’s holistic approach to victim support through education.

Educational Initiatives and Community Building

Education is the key pillar of the SCARS Institute’s mission, and its educational initiatives have reached over 12 million individuals worldwide. Through platforms like www.SCARSeducation.org, it offers its free Scam Survivor’s School, and with www.RomanceScamsNOW.com and www.ScamsNOW.com, the SCARS Institute offers a range of educational resources, including courses, webinars, and podcasts, and more, designed to inform and empower victims and survivors.

The SCARS Institute’s free Scam Survivor’s School, available at www.SCARSeducation.org, is a flagship program that provides in-depth education and support for scam survivors. The school offers a structured curriculum that covers everything from the basics of scam awareness to advanced topics in psychological recovery and advocacy. This educational initiative is a testament to the SCARS Institute’s commitment to equipping survivors and their families with the knowledge and skills they need to rebuild their lives.

In addition to formal education, the SCARS Institute creates a sense of community and connection among scam survivors. Through platforms like www.ScamSurvivorStories.org, survivors can share their stories, connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, and find support and encouragement. This community-building effort is a crucial aspect of the SCARS Institute’s work, as it recognizes the importance of social support in the healing process.

Reporting and Justice

Reporting scams and bringing criminals to justice is a critical component of SCARS’ mission. Through their reporting platform at www.AnyScam.com and additional reporting information at reporting.AgainstScams.org, the SCARS Institute encourages all scam victims to report scams and contribute to the fight against cybercrime. This platform is designed to ensure that victims’ data is protected and never shared with anyone other than law enforcement, and especially never with money recovery companies, maintaining the integrity and trust of the reporting process.

The SCARS Institute’s commitment to justice extends beyond reporting, as they work to raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of scams in Latin America, West Africa, and Asia. Through their YouTube channel, the SCARS Institute shares podcasts, webinars, and helpful videos that educate the public about the realities of scams and the importance of vigilance and reporting, as well as provide self-help support.

Honoring Survivor Stories and Advocacy

The stories of scam survivors are a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The SCARS Institute recognizes the importance of honoring and sharing these stories, as they provide inspiration, validation, and hope for others who are on the path to recovery. Through www.ScamSurvivorStories.org, the SCARS Institute offers a platform for survivors to share their experiences, connect with others, and find a sense of community and belonging.

For those who wish to take their advocacy to the next level, the SCARS Institute provides resources, training, and support for victims’ advocates through www.ScamVictimsAdvocates.org. This platform equips advocates with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to make a difference in the lives of scam victims, promoting awareness, education, and policy change.

Global Impact and Partnerships

The SCARS Institute’s impact extends far beyond its educational and advocacy efforts. The organization has formed strategic partnerships with global entities to enhance its mission and reach.

Moreover, the SCARS Institute has been recognized and awarded for its educational contributions, providing generalized self-help information that individuals can use to achieve their goals related to emotional and psychological trauma recovery and management. This recognition underscores the organization’s commitment to empowering victims with the tools they need to navigate their recovery journey.

Innovative Programs and Resources

The SCARS Institute continues to innovate and expand its offerings to better serve scam victims and survivors. Remember that all SCARS Institute services for scam victims and their families are always free of any cost.

Additionally, SCARS offers a range of resources, including the SCARS Institute Journal of Scam Victims’ Advocacy, Support and Recovery Providers, which provides in-depth insights and research on the experiences and needs of scam victims. This journal is a testament to SCARS’ commitment to advancing the understanding of scam psychology and recovery.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Hope and Resilience

As the SCARS Institute enters its 12th year of service, it looks ahead to a future filled with hope and resilience. Their dedication to understanding the scam victim’s experience, mapping the course for recovery, and advocating for justice and support has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. Through their comprehensive approach to education, psychology, and community building, the SCARS Institute continues to be a leading voice in the fight against scams and a beacon of hope for victims and survivors worldwide.

In the years to come, SCARS will continue to innovate, adapt, and expand its efforts, driven by a deep commitment to the well-being and empowerment of scam victims. Their work is a testament to the power of compassion, understanding, and collective action in the face of adversity, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a path to healing and resilience.

About the SCARS Institute

The SCARS Institute is a nonprofit organization, incorporated as the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., in the state of Florida, USA. The Institute is self-funded and does not accept government grants nor donations from scam victims. It is based in Miami, Florida, with footprints in Monterrey, NL, Mexico, Poland, and Japan. It also has partners around the world, all working to better serve scam victims/survivors. The SCARS Institute is also partnered with BetterHelp.com to make it possible for scam victims to get the professional support they need at the lowest possible cost worldwide – SCARS receives no commissions from this effort.

The SCARS Institute is led by its chairwoman, Debby Montgomery Johnson, and its managing director, Prof. Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. Its board of directors also includes Lic. Vianey Gonzalez (a licensed psychologist – Mexico), Janina Morcinek (a licensed educator – Poland), and Rika Takebe (a principal of NPO Charms – Japan).

Additional SCARS Institute Services and Resources

♦ If you are a victim of scams, go to www.ScamVictimsSupport.org for real knowledge and help

♦ Enroll in SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now, at www.SCARSeducation.org

♦ To report criminals, visit https://reporting.AgainstScams.org – we will NEVER give your data to money recovery companies like some do!

♦ Follow us and find our podcasts, webinars, and helpful videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RomancescamsNowcom

♦ Learn about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org

♦ Dig deeper into the reality of scams, fraud, and cybercrime at www.ScamsNOW.com and www.RomanceScamsNOW.com

♦ Scam Survivor’s Stories: www.ScamSurvivorStories.org

♦ For Scam Victim Advocates visit www.ScamVictimsAdvocates.org

♦ See more scammer photos on www.ScammerPhotos.com

Author Biographies

About Prof. Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth

Dr. Tim McGuinness is a co-founder, Managing Director, and Board Member of the SCARS Institute (Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.), where he serves as an unsalaried volunteer officer dedicated to supporting scam victims and survivors around the world. With over 34 years of experience in scam education and awareness, he is perhaps the longest-serving advocate in the field.

Dr. McGuinness has an extensive background as a business pioneer, having co-founded several technology-driven enterprises, including the former e-commerce giant TigerDirect.com. Beyond his corporate achievements, he is actively engaged with multiple global think tanks where he helps develop forward-looking policy strategies that address the intersection of technology, ethics, and societal well-being. He is also a computer industry pioneer (he was an Assistant Director of Corporate Research Engineering at Atari Inc. in the early 1980s) and invented core technologies still in use today.

His professional identity spans a wide range of disciplines. He is a scientist, strategic analyst, solution architect, advisor, public speaker, published author, roboticist, Navy veteran, and recognized polymath. He holds numerous certifications, including those in cybersecurity from the United States Department of Defense under DITSCAP & DIACAP, continuous process improvement and engineering and quality assurance, trauma-informed care, grief counseling, crisis intervention, and related disciplines that support his work with crime victims.

Dr. McGuinness was instrumental in developing U.S. regulatory standards for medical data privacy called HIPAA and financial industry cybersecurity called GLBA. His professional contributions include authoring more than 1,000 papers and publications in fields ranging from scam victim psychology and neuroscience to cybercrime prevention and behavioral science.

“I have dedicated my career to advancing and communicating the impact of emerging technologies, with a strong focus on both their transformative potential and the risks they create for individuals, businesses, and society. My background combines global experience in business process innovation, strategic technology development, and operational efficiency across diverse industries.”

“Throughout my work, I have engaged with enterprise leaders, governments, and think tanks to address the intersection of technology, business, and global risk. I have served as an advisor and board member for numerous organizations shaping strategy in digital transformation and responsible innovation at scale.”

“In addition to my corporate and advisory roles, I remain deeply committed to addressing the rising human cost of cybercrime. As a global advocate for victim support and scam awareness, I have helped educate millions of individuals, protect vulnerable populations, and guide international collaborations aimed at reducing online fraud and digital exploitation.”

“With a unique combination of technical insight, business acumen, and humanitarian drive, I continue to focus on solutions that not only fuel innovation but also safeguard the people and communities impacted by today’s evolving digital landscape.”

Dr. McGuinness brings a rare depth of knowledge, compassion, and leadership to scam victim advocacy. His ongoing mission is to help victims not only survive their experiences but transform through recovery, education, and empowerment.

About // Sobre la Lic. Vianey Gonzlez

Vianey Gonzalez is a licensed psychologist in Mexico and a survivor of a romance scam that ended eight years ago. Through her recovery and the support she received, she was able to refocus on her future, eventually attending a prestigious university in Mexico City to become a licensed psychologist with a specialization in crime victims and their unique trauma. She now serves as a long-standing board member of the SCARS Institute (Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.) and holds the position of Chief Psychology Officer. She also manages our Mexican office, providing support to Spanish-speaking victims around the world. Vianey has been instrumental in helping thousands of victims and remains an active contributor to the work we publish on this and other SCARS Institute websites.

La Lic. Vianey Gonzalez es profesional licenciada en psicología en México y sobreviviente de una estafa romántica que terminó hace ocho años. Gracias a su recuperación y al apoyo recibido, pudo reenfocarse en su futuro y, finalmente, cursó sus estudios en una prestigiosa universidad en la Ciudad de México para obtener su licencia como psicóloga con especialización en víctimas de crimen y sus traumas particulares. Actualmente, es miembro de la junta directiva del Instituto SCARS (Sociedad de Ciudadanos Contra las Estafas en las Relaciones) y ocupa el cargo de Directora de Psicología. También dirige nuestra oficina en México, brindando apoyo a víctimas en español en todo el mundo. Vianey ha sido fundamental para ayudar a miles de víctimas y continúa contribuyendo activamente las obras que publicamos en este y otros sitios web del Instituto SCARS.

About Debby Montgomery Johnson

Debby Montgomery Johnson is a resilient advocate, author, and speaker dedicated to empowering others through her experiences of triumph over adversity. With a diverse background spanning military service, finance, and community leadership, Debby served as a U.S. Air Force Intelligence Officer, earning accolades like the USAF Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Commendation Medal. Transitioning to banking, she excelled as Senior Branch Manager at World Savings Bank, was named Manager of the Year in Florida in 2005, and achieved top customer service honors in 2006.

Her personal journey took a dramatic turn after becoming a victim of a million-dollar online romance scam, inspiring her bestselling book, “The Woman Behind the Smile: Triumph Over the Ultimate Online Dating Betrayal.” This memoir, along with “Snapshots from Positive Tribe Stories” and contributions to “A Gift Called Fearless,” shares her path to healing and resilience. As the Chair of the Board for the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. (SCARS Institute), Debby educates and supports scam victims/survivors worldwide.

As a businesswoman, she is the CEO of BenfoComplete.com, an exceptional vitamin supplement products company developing innovative products for those who suffer from neuropathy.

A passionate volunteer with her church since 2013, she aids over 500 women in temporal and spiritual growth. Involved in organizations like: Women’s Prosperity Network, Holistic Chamber of Commerce, and The Rosie Network, Debby promotes holistic health and military family businesses. Honored as the 2017 California Women’s Conference SPEAK OFF winner, she continues inspiring audiences to embrace their true selves and live fearlessly.

About Janina Morcinek

Janina Morcinek is a dedicated and accomplished educator, holding certifications and credentials that underscore her commitment to teaching. With a robust academic background, she graduated from both the Krakow University of Technology and the Catholic University of Lublin, equipping her with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of various educational methodologies. Currently, she serves as a teacher in a secondary school, where she inspires and guides young minds, and also at a University of the Third Age (UTW), where she fosters lifelong learning and intellectual growth among her mature students.

Despite her professional success, Janina’s life took an unexpected turn six years ago when she fell victim to romance fraud. This traumatic experience left her feeling vulnerable and betrayed, but it also sparked a journey of resilience and recovery. Thanks to the support and guidance provided by SCARS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and assisting victims of romance scams, Janina was able to navigate the complex emotions and challenges that followed. Through their comprehensive resources and compassionate approach, she found the strength to heal and reclaim her life.

Today, Janina is a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for others who have experienced similar traumas. As a volunteer director with SCARS Institute, she has taken on the role of supporting and helping fellow scam victims/survivors, both within her country and internationally. Her story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of support and community. By sharing her experiences and the valuable knowledge she continues to acquire, Janina not only aids others in their recovery but also contributes to the broader mission of raising awareness about the perils of romance scams and fraud. Her dedication to this cause is a reflection of her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact and ensuring that no one has to suffer alone.

Please Rate This Article

Please Leave Us Your Comment
Also, tell us of any topics we might have missed.

Important Information for New Scam Victims

Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
SCARS Institute now offers a free recovery program at www.SCARSeducation.org
Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery

If you are looking for local trauma counselors, please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org

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

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 not to blame themselves, better develop recovery programs, and 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 INSTITUTE RESOURCES:

If You Have Been Victimized By A Scam Or Cybercrime

♦ If you are a victim of scams, go to www.ScamVictimsSupport.org for real knowledge and help

♦ Enroll in SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org

♦ To report criminals, visit https://reporting.AgainstScams.org – we will NEVER give your data to money recovery companies like some do!

♦ Follow us and find our podcasts, webinars, and helpful videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RomancescamsNowcom

♦ Learn about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org

♦ Dig deeper into the reality of scams, fraud, and cybercrime at www.ScamsNOW.com and www.RomanceScamsNOW.com

♦ Scam Survivor’s Stories: www.ScamSurvivorStories.org

♦ For Scam Victim Advocates visit www.ScamVictimsAdvocates.org

♦ See more scammer photos on www.ScammerPhotos.com

You can also find the SCARS Institute on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and TruthSocial

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.

More ScamsNOW.com Articles

SCARS Institute – 12 Years of Service to Scam Victims & Survivors – 2025/2026

Quantum Mechanics of Relationship Scams – A Metaphor – 2025

Three Fates and the Scam Victim’s Journey – 2025

Medications Alert for Scam Victims – 2025

The Loneliness of Scam Victim Recovery – 2025

Transform Your Survivor’s Stories into an Epic Campfire Saga – 2025

An Essay on the Delusion of Safety – 2025

Becoming an Authentic Scam Survivor – 2025

A Question of Trust

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.

TOP OF PAGE

SCARS Institute – 12 Years of Service to Scam Victims & Survivors – 2025/2026

Author Biographies Below

About This Article

The SCARS Institute at 12 Years: A Decade and Beyond of Dedication to Scam Victims and Survivors

A Legacy of Advocacy and Support

Pioneering the Psychology of Scams

Educational Initiatives and Community Building

Reporting and Justice

Honoring Survivor Stories and Advocacy

Global Impact and Partnerships

Innovative Programs and Resources

Looking Ahead: A Future of Hope and Resilience

About the SCARS Institute

Additional SCARS Institute Services and Resources

Author Biographies

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Important Information for New Scam Victims

Statement About Victim Blaming

SCARS INSTITUTE RESOURCES:

If You Have Been Victimized By A Scam Or Cybercrime

Psychology Disclaimer:

More ScamsNOW.com Articles

A Question of Trust

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

SCARS Institute™ ScamsNOW Magazine Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS]

Find SCARS™ All Across The Web & Social Media

SCARS Institute™ ScamsNOW Magazine
Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS]