Heres what Ive learned, and how you could avoid falling into the same traps.
The Scammers Playbook: How They Operate
Industry scammers rarely appear as the stereotypical villains.
They boasted of multimillion-dollar business ventures and insider knowledge that seemed valuable to my work.
It wasnt until after I had invested time, energy and trust that the cracks began to show.
Inconsistent Stories and Credentials: Watch for individuals whose stories frequently change or whose credentials cant be verified.
A common tactic is to inflate their resume with unverifiable claims about past success or connections.
Their lack of professionalism could damage your reputation by association.
Scammers often promise future returns but rarely deliver.
Phrases like, You dont know the consequences of crossing me or losing my patience, are common tactics.
Heres how I handled the situation and how you’re free to too:
1.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communications, agreements and interactions.
These records could be crucial in protecting yourself legally.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
Dont ignore your gut feeling.
If a business relationship causes stress or misalignment, consider reevaluating it.
Reach out to your professional association as well.
Review your insurance policies for coverage.
Rely on Your data pipe: Reach out to trusted friends and colleagues.
Their support was invaluable.
Gathering certified testimonies can also help.
Surround yourself with those who have your best interests at heart.
Dont Engage with Threats: If the person begins making threats, do not engage.
Vet Everyone: Before entering any business relationship, do your due diligence.
Check references, verify credentials and dig deeper than a quick Google search.
Establish Boundaries Early: Be clear about your expectations and boundaries from the start.
Dont be afraid to walk away if something doesnt feel right.
Stay Educated: Educating yourself about scammers tactics is one of the best defenses.
Learn to spot the signs early and take action before things escalate.
I hope that by sharing these lessons, I can help others avoid the same pitfalls.
Remember, your success will always attract attention, some of it good, some of it harmful.
