Understanding Grief & Complex Grief for Scam Victims 2024

Understanding Grief & Complex Grief for Scam Victims

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Helping Scam Victim Find and Follow the Yellow Brick Road!

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.
•  Portions from multiple sources for accuracy

Article Abstract

Scam victims endure various forms of grief, each impacting their recovery uniquely.

Each grief type adds complexity for scam victims, necessitating tailored recovery addressing betrayal, financial repercussions, legal aspects, online safety, shame, isolation, education, emotional resilience, relationship rebuilding, peer support, and ongoing vigilance.

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Importance of Scam Victims’ Learning in Recovery from Scams 2024

Importance of Learning in Scam Victims Recovering from Scams

Scam Victim Recovery

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

Article Abstract

In this age, scams, including phishing, fraudulent investments, and relationship scams, pose a significant threat and scam victims pay the price.

The article stresses the need for awareness and education to prevent, detect, and recover from such crimes. Understanding and learning about the various scam forms, from email phishing to relationship scams, is vital for the recovery of scam victims, and to help them avoid scams in the future.

Education helps victims overcome self-blame and recover. Unraveling manipulation techniques, particularly in relationship scams, empower individuals to recognize and resist emotional exploitation. Victims of relationship scams face psychological trauma, and recovery involves building a support system and seeking professional counseling.

Rebuilding trust and addressing trauma is critical, and SCARS Support & Recovery Groups play a key Read More …

Overconfidence And Scam Victims’ Susceptibility To Scams – 2024

Overconfidence And Scam Victims’ Susceptibility To Scams

Psychology of Scams

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

Overconfidence poses a hidden threat, enticing individuals into the dangerous realms of scams in financial and interpersonal spheres.

Manifesting in decision-making and risk assessment, overconfidence leads people to overestimate their abilities, influenced by cognitive biases and reliance on mental shortcuts.

The brain’s reward system reinforces this bias through positive feedback, hindering objective self-evaluation. This overconfidence, pervasive in romance and cryptocurrency scams, blinds individuals to red flags and manipulations.

Understanding the neuroscience behind overconfidence involves recognizing cognitive biases, anchoring bias, illusion of control, and prefrontal cortex involvement. Mitigating overconfidence requires diverse perspectives, expert advice, critical thinking, and mindfulness, empowering individuals to make rational and informed Read More …

Scam Victims Suppressing Trauma Or Avoiding Recovery And Healing 2024

Scam Victims Suppressing Trauma Or Avoiding Recovery and Healing

Scam Victim 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 suppressing or avoiding trauma face profound consequences, emphasizing the crucial importance of recovery through direct confrontation.

This avoidance may prevent the prevention of long-term impact, perpetuating maladaptive coping cycles. Confronting trauma validates victims’ experiences, empowering them with understanding and agency over their narrative. It interrupts the cycle of avoidance, fostering healthier coping strategies and resilience. By acknowledging the dynamics of scams, victims rebuild trust in themselves, identify coping strategies, and prevent secondary trauma in relationships.

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Love Bombing & Amygdala Hijacked Scam Victims – Love Is Chemical After All 2024

Love Bombing & Amygdala Hijacked Scam Victims

Love Is Chemical After All

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

In the case of online deception, scam victims often find themselves deeply in love, only to realize it was a meticulously crafted illusion—a result of Amygdala Hijacks and Love Bombing caused by deceptive romance scams.

Love involves a complex interplay of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain, creating a potent cocktail that scammers exploit. Amygdala Hijacks create urgency and fear, triggering the brain’s fight-or-flight response, while love bombing floods victims with excessive affection to foster attachment. The brain’s striatum and TPJ play pivotal roles in processing love, and scammers manipulate positive amygdala hijacks to create false trust Read More …

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.

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SCARS Emotional Scam Victims’ Support & Recovery Program – Turning Them Into Scam Survivors 2024

SCARS Emotional Scam Victims’ Support & Recovery Program

Turning Them Into Scam Survivors

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

Article Abstract

The SCARS 3 Step Emotional Support & Recovery Program for Relationship Scam Victims is a structured, comprehensive initiative aimed at transforming victims into survivors and ultimately thriving individuals.

In the first step, “New Arrivers,” victims receive crisis support, immediate assistance, and guidance on confronting the reality of their situation.

The second step, spanning the next 12 months, focuses on acceptance and empowerment, encouraging survivors to reinforce recovery gains, take corrective actions, and integrate the experience into their life stories.

The program provides ongoing support in the third step, promoting continued acceptance, socialization, and advocacy.

With components like individual therapy, support groups, and legal advice, the program operates on key principles such as trauma-informed care, compassion, and empowerment, offering victims Read More …

Scam Victim Catastrophizing Making Recovery Difficult 2024

Scam Victim Catastrophizing Making Recovery Difficult

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 often fall prey to catastrophizing, a cognitive distortion magnifying worst-case scenarios, and intensifying anxiety post-scam.

Financial losses amplify worries, eroding trust and fostering identity crises. Anticipating legal and social consequences heightens distress, making recovery challenging. Counteracting catastrophizing involves challenging negative thoughts, gaining perspective, and focusing on solutions. Mindfulness, gratitude, and seeking support play vital roles.

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Scam Victims’ Vulnerability And Device Screen Time 2024

Scam Victims’ Vulnerability And Device Screen Time

The Psychology of Scams

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

Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, triggers a dopamine-driven addiction loop, impacting individuals psychologically and heightening vulnerability to becoming scam victims.

The constant pursuit of online rewards impairs judgment and decision-making, making users susceptible to scams promising immediate gratification.

Emotional dependencies created by dopamine release expose individuals to scams exploiting feelings of loneliness or fear. Scammers capitalize on the desire for quick rewards and blur the lines between genuine opportunities and deceptive schemes.

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New Scam Victims – the Importance of Starting Off Right 2024

Importance of Starting Off Right for New Scam Victims

New Scam Victims Can Be Very Confused About What To Do Next!

Scam Victims Support & Recovery

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

Article Abstract

Guide for New Scam Victims: Navigating the Path to Healing

Discovering you’re a scam victim is bewildering, but understanding it’s not your fault is crucial. Professional criminals manipulate vulnerabilities, making anyone susceptible. You’re not alone; scams affect millions globally.

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SEXTORTION SCAM WARNING – URGENT – 2024

SEXTORTION SCAM WARNING – URGENT – 2024

Very High Sextortion Scam Risk Targeting Teen Victims

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Paul Raffile, Teleo, Intel Analyst | Investigator | Security Strategy | Digital Risk | OSINT

Article Abstract

This article details an urgent Sextortion Scam Warning that has the potential to affect millions more teens in the coming weeks. Please help – read, respond and share, and report.

♦♦♦ Sextortion Scam Warning! We Need Your Help! We Need You To Report The Wizz App On The Google App Store And In The Apple iTunes Store, Then Report It To The FTC!

This Is Catastrophic And It Is Happening Right Under Our Noses!

TALK TO YOUR TEENS ABOUT SCAMS AND SPECIFICALLY ABOUT SEXTORTION SCAMS!

♦ There will be a nationwide child exploitation emergency on Monday, January 15th, unless you can urgently Read More …

Scam Reimbursement Part 1 – UK Payment Systems Regulator Final Scam Reimbursement Model – 2024

UK Payment Systems Regulator Final Scam Reimbursement

Implementing Widespread Scam/Fraud Victim Reimbursement in the United Kingdom = A Model for the World!

Author:
•  Ken Palla, Retired Director, MUFG Union Bank – Courtesy of BioCatch

Article Abstract

“UK Payment Systems Regulator Sets Precedent with Final Scam Reimbursement Guidelines”

The UK Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) released comprehensive scam reimbursement requirements, effective October 2024, offering a global model.

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Trust: Romance Scams Betrayal And Scam Victims – 2024

Betrayal And The Destruction Of Trust In Scam Victims

Scam Victim Psychology & Recovery

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 inflict profound emotional and psychological harm, far exceeding mere financial loss. This paper delves into the neurochemical basis of trust formation and the devastating repercussions when that trust is violently betrayed. We explore the brain regions, hormones, and neurotransmitters involved in building intimacy, and the cascade of negative effects triggered by its shattering.

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Vulnerability and Breakdown in Scam Victims – The Camel’s Back Syndrome Metaphor – 2024

The Camel’s Back Syndrome

A Metaphor for Vulnerability and Breakdown in Scam Victims

The Psychology of Scams

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

The Camel’s Back Syndrome serves as a potent metaphor elucidating the vulnerabilities and collapse encountered by scam victims.

Capturing the gradual accumulation of stressors akin to straws on a camel’s back, it mirrors the incremental breakdown in victims’ psychological resilience during scams. Exploring this metaphor unveils the intricate process of scams, shedding light on the profound trauma post-discovery.

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Relationship Scam Victims – Impact On Employment And Jobs – Saving Employment After A Scam

Relationship Scam Victims – The Impact On Employment And Jobs – Saving Employment After A Scam

Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  Vianey Gonzalez – 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

The article examines the challenges faced by scam victims of relationship scams in maintaining their employment post-scam, outlining the emotional trauma’s impact on job performance. Authors Vianey Gonzalez and Dr. Tim McGuinness shed light on the struggles of scam victims, whose grief and emotional distress permeate into the workplace, making work seem insurmountable.

The emotional aftermath disrupts work routines, triggers absenteeism, and hampers productivity due to trauma-induced symptoms like brain fog, reduced motivation, and concentration difficulties. Scam victims also experience fear of judgment and social isolation at work, amplifying the emotional burden.

The piece offers advice, Read More …

Scam Victims: Applying Boundaries When Compassion Is Required Instead – 2023

Applying Boundaries When Compassion Is Required Instead

Or Vice Versa!

Helping Scam Victims To Understand When One Is Called For And Not The Other

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

Knowing When To Use Compassion Or Boundaries Or Both

How Can You Know When It Is Appropriate To Apply Boundaries Or Compassion In Scam-Victim Relationships After The Scam Ends?

Scam victims usually turn to boundaries, not compassion, when they find themselves entangled in a web of emotions and complexities after the scam ordeal.

In the aftermath, there’s a tendency to blur the lines between setting personal boundaries and extending compassion, especially towards others who have shared portions of the traumatic experience within the scam, such as spouses, children, friends, and families.

Read More …

Magic & Relationship Scams – Both Involve Similar Manipulation & Control – 2023

Magic & Relationship Scams – Both Involve Similar Manipulation & Control

Lessons Learned From Magic In How Scammers Manipulate Scam Victims Into and During Relationship Scams

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

Just Like Scammers, Magic Relies On Significant Manipulation & Control

In fact, what we call magic today began in ancient history as methods to scam people from their wealth

Magic tricks and relationship scams may seem worlds apart, but both rely on intricate psychological manipulation techniques to achieve their ends.

While magic aims to entertain and amaze through illusion, relationship scams prey on emotions and trust, resulting in deceit and exploitation.

Let’s explore the parallels and differences in the manipulation techniques employed in both scenarios.

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Scam Victims And The Crossing Of The River Styx – An Interpretation Of The Recovery Process – 2023

Scam Victims And The Crossing Of The River Styx

An Interpretation of the Recovery Process

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

Hear this article – Read by the Author – Click Here

The Recovery Process Has Greater Meaning Than Just Feeling Better For Scam Victims!

It Is A Mythological Journey From The Land Of What Was Once To The Land Of What Will Be

For most scam victims their recovery process is a journey of rebirth and renewal. It is a journey through the emotional underworld and that journey is a heroic beginning to their new and future life. And like most hero’s journeys, most of those who could make the journey will never take it, yet ironically, everyone could.

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Romance Scam Victims & The Holidays – 2023

Romance Scam Victims & The Holidays

Navigating Your First Holiday Season Without a Loved One – Fake Loved One!

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

Navigating the Holidays For Scam Victims After a Romance Scam: Healing from Deception and Betrayal

The holidays period is intended to be a time filled with happiness, unity, and festivity. For most of us, the holiday season shimmers with joyous anticipation, a time for festive gatherings and cherished traditions.

However, amidst the twinkling lights and cheerful carols, a different reality exists for scam victims reeling from the wreckage of a shattered romance scam relationship. This pain takes on a unique and often misunderstood dimension when the relationship itself was a cruel illusion – a romance scam. For romance scam victims who have been ensnared in a romance scam, the festivities can become a poignant reminder of loss, heartache, Read More …

Motivational Denial – Recovery Psychology – 2023

Motivational Denial

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.

How Motivational Denial Can Hold People Back From Emotional Recovery – Especially Scam Victims

One of the things that can be hardest for new victims is total acceptance!

Motivational Denial can hold Victims Back

Relationship scam victims have been through the traumatic experience of believing in a totally false story spun by the criminals who stole from them.

But in the days that follow, that tendency to continue magical thinking remains. Victims are desperately looking for a savior, a path forward, and how to diminish the guilt and shame they feel.

Read More …

SCARS 5 Coping Techniques For Traumatized Scam Victims – 2023

SCARS 5 Coping Techniques For Traumatized Scam Victims

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.

SCARS 5 Coping Techniques for Traumatized Scam Victims – Navigating the Aftermath

Being scammed can be a deeply unsettling experience, leaving you feeling violated, confused, and unsure of where to turn. The emotional impact can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the path to healing isn’t always linear, there are effective coping techniques you can embrace to navigate the aftermath and rebuild your sense of well-being.

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Fibromyalgia & Psychological Trauma Link – Medical Health Alert – 2023

Fibromyalgia & Psychological Trauma Link – Medical Health Alert

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

Connection Between Psychological Trauma And Fibromyalgia Is A Complex

The connection between psychological trauma and fibromyalgia is a complex and multifaceted one, with growing research suggesting a significant link between the two!

Read More …

Trauma Recollection/Traumatic Flashbacks And Scam Victim PTSD – Recovery Psychology – 2023

Trauma Recollection/Traumatic Flashbacks

Understanding Scam Victim Trauma Recollection, Flashbacks, & Memories

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.

Trauma Recollection/Traumatic Flashbacks Or Memories And The Effects That It Has On Scam Victims – PTSD And Recovery Psychology

Most Scam Victims Suffer from some form of Trauma, but for some, this can be the Retriggering of the Original Trauma Over and Over!

While flashbacks are a well-known symptom of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it’s not the only way trauma can manifest itself – they can also be Trauma Recollection.

Scam victims can certainly re-experience their trauma simply by remembering the crime without meeting the full criteria for PTSD.

Read More …

Japanese Lawyer Arrested For Money Recovery Fraud – 2023

Japanese Lawyer Arrested For Collaborating With Money Recovery Scammers

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

‘International Romance Fraud Victim Relief’ – A Japanese Lawyer Was Arrested For Participation In Money Recovery Fraud Related To Romance Scams

An 82-year-old Japanese lawyer was arrested in Tokyo by the Osaka Prefectural Police for lending his lawyer’s name and credentials to a defendant charged with money recovery fraud, according to interviews with people involved in the investigation.

Read More …

Anger & Self-Radicalization – Recovery Psychology 2023

Anger & Self-Radicalization

How Scam Victims Radicalize Themselves

Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  Vianey Gonzalez – 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.

Anger & Self-Radicalization – When A Relationship Scam Ends Victims Face Many Demons, From Shock To Fear & Horror To Desperation To Anger!

Anger can often be the default state when a scam is discovered, a victim’s world collapses and what they thought was real and certain is proved to be anything but. The desire for certainty in some victims can be overwhelming regardless of what the impact will be on them psychologically.

Many victims will give in to denial as a way of coping with the incredible trauma they experience. While others, more realistic know that something terrible happened to them and they need help Read More …