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

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

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

Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

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

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

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

Understanding the dual nature of storytelling is crucial in recognizing its role in both healing and Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-05-11T13:50:05-04:00May 11th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: Acceptance, Human Needs, Manipulation, Psychology of Scams, Scam Victim, Scam Victim Stories, Storytelling, Trauma, Urban Legends|

A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber – 2024 [VIDEOS]

A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber

Ann Mayers, a Scam Victim lost her life savings and borrowed over $80,000 which she still owed. Out of Desperation, she decided to become a Bank Robber

However, the story is not as simple as it seems due to the trauma and cognitive impairment victims suffer from

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions WLWT5 News and other sources

About This Article

Ann Mayers, a 74-year-old Ohio woman, turned to bank robbery in desperation after falling victim to an online scam.

Police responded to a robbery at AurGroup Credit Union, where Mayers demanded cash at gunpoint. She was later found at her home and confessed to the crime, admitting recent financial losses to an unidentified online scammer. Mayers faces charges of aggravated robbery and tampering with evidence, highlighting the tragic consequences of online scams.

Such scams often Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-04-29T06:10:23-04:00April 29th, 2024|Categories: • VICTIMOLOGY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, Tim McGuinness PhD, USA|Tags: Ann Mayers, Bank Robber, Fairfield Ohio, Hamilton Ohio, Psychology of Scams, Scam Victim, Trauma, Victim Psychology, Victimology|

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

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal

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

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

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

About This Article

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

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

Mysteriously, she was found drowned in a river, raising suspicions of foul play. Her daughter, Kelly Gowe, tirelessly seeks answers, highlighting the manipulative Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-04-29T04:51:32-04:00April 28th, 2024|Categories: • VICTIM'S STORY, 2024, Additional Authors, GHANA, NEWS, NIGERIA, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: Ghana Scammers, Laura Kowal, Money Mule, Nigerian Scammers, Relationship Scam, Romance Scam, Romance Scammer, Scam Victim, Scammers, Victim Who Died|

A Typical Scam Victim Journey Through Recovery Challenges – 2024

A Typical Scam Victim Journey Through Recovery Challenges

Helping Scam Victims Understand What their Priorities Should Be while going through Recovery

A SCARS Scam Victim Recovery Insight – 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

The SCARS phased approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the challenges that afflict scam victims during their recovery process. This is not the only recovery model, but this best reflects the experience that SCARS has had with millions of scam victims over the last decade.

Prioritizing safety, trauma management, grief processing, and self-care are foundational steps in overcoming the aftermath of victimization. Recognizing and addressing feelings of shame, guilt, and grief allow victims to navigate the complex emotions associated Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-03-04T21:50:12-05:00March 4th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: Recovery Journey, Recovery Phases, Scam Victim, Victim Recovery|

Coping with Scam Victim Trauma: Exploring Positive and Negative Coping Mechanisms – 2024

Coping with Scam Victim Trauma: Exploring Positive and Negative Coping Mechanisms

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 aftermath of becoming a victim to a scam, individuals often grapple with a myriad of emotions and challenges, leading to the adoption of coping mechanisms, both positive and negative.

Positive coping strategies such as seeking social support, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in constructive activities can facilitate recovery, healing and resilience.

Conversely, negative coping mechanisms like avoidance, substance abuse, and self-blame can exacerbate emotional distress and hinder recovery.

A Scam Victim in Extreme Distress – Stopping the Pain – 2024

A Scam Victim in Extreme Distress – Stopping the Pain

An Essay about the Extreme Distress that often follows the Discovery of a Scam

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

About This Article

When scam victims express extreme distress, it’s a cry for help and a manifestation of deep pain, tearing apart their sense of self. Understanding the neurological storm in their brain during distress is crucial.

Brain regions like the amygdala become hyperactive, while the prefrontal cortex, vital for rational thinking, is impaired. Dysregulated neurotransmitters contribute to mood disturbances. To cope, victims should prioritize safety and seek professional help. Even in extreme distress, small steps like deep breathing or expressing feelings can be empowering.

Read Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-02-04T06:56:17-05:00February 2nd, 2024|Categories: • FOR SCAM VICTIMS, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: Emotional Pain, Extreme Distress, Getting Help, Scam Victim, SCARS Essay|

Scam Victim Psychological Alienation After A Scam 2024

Scam Victim Psychological Alienation After A 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.

Article Abstract

Scam victims grappling with the aftermath of romance scams often experience profound and lasting psychological alienation, extending beyond financial loss. Psychological alienation involves feeling disconnected from oneself, others, and the world, leading to self-estrangement, social isolation, powerlessness, and normlessness.

Scammers employ sophisticated grooming, manipulation, and control tactics, causing victims to question their vulnerability and decision-making abilities, and rupturing trust in personal relationships. Coping with psychological alienation requires seeking professional support, engaging in therapy, and joining support groups.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-01-22T18:05:07-05:00January 22nd, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: Alienantion, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim, Scam Victims, Victim Recovery|

Stockholm Syndrome – Getting Scam Victims To Break The Law – 2024

Stockholm Syndrome – Getting Scam Victims To Break The Law

Understanding The Coercive Power Of Scam Manipulation And Control

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

Article Abstract

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

SCARS Editorial Team2024-01-08T14:04:45-05:00January 8th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: Breaking the Law, Control, Manipulation, Romance Scam Syndrome, Romance Scams, Scam Victim, Stockholm Syndrome|

Romance Scam Victim Steals And Gives To Her Scammer – 2024

Romance Scam Victim Steals And Gives To Her Scammer

An Example Of The Level Of Control Scammers Have Over Their Victims

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

Article Abstract

A tragic case unfolds as Sharon Ann Schmalzriedt, a Minnesota woman and romance scam victim, faces charges for embezzling $3.75 million from a local business and misappropriating $17,150 from a vulnerable adult. Allegedly entangled in an online romance, she funneled funds to an individual named Erik Lockwood, misled by his claims of needing US currency to access millions owed.

SCARS Editorial Team2024-01-08T12:05:30-05:00January 8th, 2024|Categories: • VICTIM'S STORY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Editorial Team, USA|Tags: Control, Embezzling, Manipulation, Romance Scam, Scam Victim|

Scam Victim Stress – The Psychological, Cerebral, and Physiological Effects – 2024

Scam Victim Stress

The Psychological, Cerebral, and Physiological Effects

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

Article Abstract

Falling victim to a scam isn’t just about the money. It leaves lasting scars on the mind, body, and emotions, triggering a web of stress that can persist for months or even years. This article explores the complex effects of scam-induced stress and offers pathways to recovery.

Scam Victim Commits Suicide – Romance Scam Scammers Arrested – 2023

Scam Victim Commits Suicide

Romance Scam Scammers Arrested

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

Nigerians Scammers Living In The U.S. Romance Scam Elderly Man Who Then Takes His Own Life!

The FBI has disclosed a tragic story involving a retired teacher’s suicide, a result of falling victim to a sick celebrity romance scam, allegedly orchestrated by a New Jersey couple of Nigerian descent, Chinagorom Onwumere, 34, and Salma Abdalkareem, 27, residing in the United States.

SCARS Editorial Team2023-12-28T11:05:54-05:00December 28th, 2023|Categories: SCARS Editorial Team, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2023, NEWS, USA|Tags: Nigerian Scammers, Romance Scam, Scam Victim, Scammers Arrested, Suicide|

Reclaiming Your Worth: A Scam Survivor’s Guide to Navigating Your Worthiness After a Scam – 2023

Reclaiming Your Worth

A Scam Survivor’s Guide to Navigating Your Worthiness After the Scam

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

Your Worth? AXIOS! You Are Worthy

Falling victim to a scam can feel like a brutal assault on your identity and your worth.

The perpetrator, skilled in the art of deception, exploits your trust and vulnerabilities, leaving you reeling with a cocktail of anger, betrayal, and profound self-doubt.

The question that echoes through the haze of disillusionment becomes a gnawing refrain: “Am I still worthy?”

SCARS Editorial Team2023-12-27T04:01:11-05:00December 27th, 2023|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2023, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD|Tags: Recovery Psychology, Scam Survivor, Scam Victim, Your Worth - Self Worth|

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

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

Psychology of Scams

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

About This Article

A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber

Ann Mayers, a Scam Victim lost her life savings and borrowed over $80,000 which she still owed. Out of Desperation, she decided to become a Bank Robber

However, the story is not as simple as it seems due to the trauma and cognitive impairment victims suffer from

Authors: • SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions WLWT5 News and other sources

About This Article

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal

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

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

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

About This Article

A Typical Scam Victim Journey Through Recovery Challenges

Helping Scam Victims Understand What their Priorities Should Be while going through Recovery

A SCARS Scam Victim Recovery Insight – Recovery Psychology

About This Article

Coping with Scam Victim Trauma: Exploring Positive and Negative Coping Mechanisms

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

About This Article

A Scam Victim in Extreme Distress – Stopping the Pain

An Essay about the Extreme Distress that often follows the Discovery of a Scam

About This Article

Scam Victim Psychological Alienation After A Scam

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Article Abstract

Stockholm Syndrome – Getting Scam Victims To Break The Law

Understanding The Coercive Power Of Scam Manipulation And Control

Article Abstract

Romance Scam Victim Steals And Gives To Her Scammer

An Example Of The Level Of Control Scammers Have Over Their Victims

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

Article Abstract

Scam Victim Stress

The Psychological, Cerebral, and Physiological Effects

Article Abstract

Scam Victim Commits Suicide

Romance Scam Scammers Arrested

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

Nigerians Scammers Living In The U.S. Romance Scam Elderly Man Who Then Takes His Own Life!

Reclaiming Your Worth

A Scam Survivor’s Guide to Navigating Your Worthiness After the Scam

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

Your Worth? AXIOS! You Are Worthy

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

Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions WLWT5 News and other sources

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

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

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

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