Cybercriminals' Playbook: How Scammers Trick People in Just a Week
Scammers have a step-by-step guide to trick people into sending them money. They use fake identities and emotional tricks to build trust quickly.
Step 1: Creating a Fake Persona
Scammers craft a detailed backstory for their fake identity. They pick details like:
- Birthdays
- Jobs
- Hobbies
This helps them seem real and build a connection with their target.
Example: A scammer might claim to work for a big company or own a fancy car.
Step 2: Making the First Contact
Scammers reach out with simple greetings and questions to gauge interest. They then adapt their approach based on the target's personality.
- Flirty for some
- Serious for others
Step 3: Building Trust
The goal is to make the target fall in love or trust the scammer quickly. They use:
- Compliments
- Shared interests
- Small tasks
They also mimic the target's language to seem more genuine.
Step 4: The Money Request
Once the target is hooked, the scammer introduces an investment or emergency that requires money. They might say they need help with:
- Travel costs
- Investment opportunities
The target, now emotionally invested, often sends money without thinking.
Step 5: Teamwork and Scripts
Scammers often work in teams and use scripts to guide conversations. They have answers ready for any questions the target might have.
If the target becomes suspicious, the scammer might hand them off to a senior member of the team.
The Aftermath
The aftermath for the victim can be devastating:
- Shame and isolation
- Financial loss
- No chance of recovering the money
Meanwhile, the scammer moves on to the next target, leaving a trail of heartbreak and financial loss.
