5 Scams That Have Duped Even the Most Intelligent People…and How They Did It
Think the most intellectually advanced among us are immune to a con?
Think again.
For centuries, eveyrone from high-net-worth to high profile individuals have fallen for some of the oldest cons int he book, with tailored tricks that prey on their curiosity and yes, intelligence.
Here are five cons that have spanned the test of time when it comes to the art of the dupe.
Opportunity in Disguise
What
Sophisticated Ponzi schemes, cryptocurrency, or exclusive hedge fund invitations.
01Why
Especially in today’s landscape, these types of scams come polished to perfection. Whether drawn in by a well-done presentation, faux legitimacy or high-level language, intelligent individuals often believe they can spot a bad deal — which can ironically blind them to red flags. The drive to be an early adopter or part of an exclusive group an override skepticism.
02Warning signs
Promises of high returns with low risk, or the phrase “you don’t want to miss this.”
03Example
Read more about Bernie Madoff’s ponzi scheme here.
04
The Intelligence Agent
What
A contact presents as a covert operative needing help — or offers a chance to be “recruited.”
01Why
Often targeting people with above-average curiosity, patriotism or a taste for intrigue, the contact may tell the victim they've been “selected” due to their status, background, or brainpower. Scams can often involve faked documents, vague security clearances and an abnormal amount of secrecy. These targets are gradually drawn into bizarre scenarios — sometimes being asked to perform small tasks, make “secure” payments or maintain secrecy for “national security.” The psychological manipulation can be extremely advanced.
02Warning signs
An abundance of secrecy; requests involving money, favors, or illegal activity; and an inability to allow for independently verified credentials.
03Example
Read more about Saint Jovite Youngblood’s CIA cons here.
04
The Relationship Trap
What
Relationships that develop emotional intimacy and then evolve into asking for money or favors.
01Why
Smarts don’t always equal emotional intelligence. Romance — or even friendship or partnership — scams are highly personalized and manipulative, and many con artists spend months grooming victims. Highly intelligent people may rationalize or ignore red flags because they’ve developed an emotional investment.
02Warning signs
Requests for financial help, secrecy, or sudden emotional crises.
03Example
Read about “Dirty John”’s John Meehan here.
04
Impersonation And Deception
What
Con artists will often pretend to be CEOs, doctors or government officials to trick victims into taking action.
01Why
Educated and highly intelligent people can oftentimes work in high-trust professional environments. Scammers exploit this by crafting believable impersonations and using flattery ("You are the only person qualified to handle this situation.") to disarm suspicion and earn trust.
02Warning signs
Any ask to bypass normal protocols, secrecy or urgency — especially involving money transfers or sensitive data.
03Example
Read about the con of finance writer Charlotte Cowles here.
04
IT Scams
How
Pop-ups, IT issues or phone calls warning of security breaches that are not legitimate.
01Why
Even the savviest of users can be thrown into panic when tech issues appear urgent. People with high-levels of education or training may believe they can fix the issue without consulting others—making them ideal targets for scammers offering remote access “help.”
02Warning signs
Unsolicited contact, urgency and requests for access or payment for vague services.
03Example
Read about the computer con of pianist Roger Davidson here.
04