Scams & Cons

Scams & Cons

Jim Grinstead

Scammers don't steal your money, they create a world where it makes perfect sense to hand your cash over to them. Three-card-monte, the longest running show on Broadway, seems easy. You're watching the tosser and you always see the queen. What you don't see is a group of shills working you into the gate where you'll lose everything you have.Sometimes a large sum of money is accidentally sent to you and the sender asks for the additional cash to be sent back. In the meantime, they empty your bank account.We'll tell you all about the scams, how they...

Scammers are using Amber Alerts to steal info on your child

Scammers are using Amber Alerts to steal info on your child

Send us a textYour child is safe at home, but scammers are calling to get info about them to put into a state "registry." It's a scam ... don't fall for it.Hear this story and more on Scams & Cons News.

Feb 20, • 11:55

Scammers do stupid things, too. Let us tell you about them.

Scammers do stupid things, too. Let us tell you about them.

Send us a textIt's easy to think of a scammer as a slick, sophisticated character, ready to outsmart your every move.Not so fast.Scammers do stupid stuff too, and we're here to tell you about them. Listen in for a good laugh and relief that they aren't as clever as we think they are.

Feb 13, • 22:23

One bad click wipes out a life's savings and a scammer took the money, but kept the pictures

One bad click wipes out a life's savings and a scammer took the money, but kept the pictures

Send us a textIn the early days of computing, we were afraid that if we pushed one wrong button, we'd lose all our work -- and that frequently happened.Nowadays, the risk isn't so high and total losses are rare, but scammers have figured out how to convince you to push just one button that allows them to steal your money and anything else personal on your computer.We'll tell you about that and about a former TV anchor who was arrested for taking money intended for the poor.Listen at ScamsAndCons

Feb 6, • 14:03

Welcome to Season 8

Welcome to Season 8

Send us a textWe're kicking off season 8 with a look at some really stupid scammers, then come back by asking if victims can ever really get justice.The news is back with some changes and we'll be taking several dives into how AI is being used by scammers and con artists.Plus, beginning this season, you'll be able to text me with your comments, questions or anything that's on your mind. I look forward to hearing from you!Thanks for listening!

Jan 30, • 3:17

REPLAY: Time travelers are scamming thousands

REPLAY: Time travelers are scamming thousands

Send us a textPeople are coming back from the future. Some want computers to help solve problems for which the need ancient software, while others need some cold, hard cash to survive in this primitive world of ours.People are handing money over to these con artists without asking a simple question: Why are future IT people too stupid to keep their technology up-to-date and they need to travel back in time so we can fix it for them? Support the podcast

Jan 23, • 15:45

REPLAY: Miracle cures have arrived! Whatever the ailment, they will do the job

REPLAY: Miracle cures have arrived! Whatever the ailment, they will do the job

Send us a textThink of all the music jingles you've heard over the years, promising that this pill or that one will help prevent cancer, ease your aching bones or guarantee you a longer, healthier life.It's snake oil and in this episode we tell you the difference between Western medicine, alternative medicine and outright frauds.Pay close attention, because some people will swallow anything.Support the podcast

Jan 9, • 23:31

Squatters are getting more creative - and more political

Squatters are getting more creative - and more political

Send us a textWe're talking about squatters again, primarily because they are improving their tactics and because they can rob you of your single largest investment. And it's a scam you don't see coming until it has already happened.Squatters are also organizing. They are forming unions of sorts to change or create laws that protect what they see are their rights.Scammers are always one step ahead of us. Listen in because we can't afford to be left behind.Learn more about you

Dec 26, 2024 • 22:06

Cat lady confuses scammers and keeps them on the line

Cat lady confuses scammers and keeps them on the line

An AI Cat Lady confuses scammers and keeps them on the line while they keep making their pitches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 19, 2024 • 16:16

Adoption fraud: When hopeful parents are robbed of their dream

Adoption fraud: When hopeful parents are robbed of their dream

Send us a textAdoption agencies can be difficult to work with. They have many requirements that must be met, and justifiably so. They want to make sure an adopted child finds a good and safe home.But some potential parents are patient. They want a faster process and are willing to pay to move to the top of the line. Desperation and fear is where scammers like to operate and today we'll tell you how they do it.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 12, 2024 • 27:15

The swoop and squat scam is back!

The swoop and squat scam is back!

Send us a textThe old scam called the swoop and squat is back! It involves two cars with one swooping in front of a another, then coming to a halt. The scammers hope the rear driver will pay up without involving an insurance company. If no crash occurs, the scammers just put their car in reverse and slam into the car behind.Cars and trucks that have been flooded as part of recent storms, are being patched together and shipped to other states for sale. Don't be a sucker, check your prospecti

Dec 5, 2024 • 13:02

Scammers say Black Friday 'tis the season to be stealing

Scammers say Black Friday 'tis the season to be stealing

Send us a textFake websites are the hot thing this holiday season and they'll be popping up everywhere.You'll be amazed at how easy it is to set up a fake website. We'll tell you how it happens -- not how to do it.Listen to Scams and Cons wherever you get podcastsSupport the podcastLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 28, 2024 • 21:24

Scammers find a new way to turn your loose coins into big cash

Scammers find a new way to turn your loose coins into big cash

Send us a textWhen someone knocks on your door, you're not expecting them to ask for sex. That's what some scammers are doing. They are offering sexual partners online, then send the mark to an address to receive the service. The homeowners aren't expecting the dozens of people who show up at their house.And black marketers sell a name for $10 allowing the scammer to rob $4,500 from a mark's account.Hear these stories and more on Scams & Cons, wherever you get your podcas

Nov 21, 2024 • 15:51

Why scammers only want to steal your heart

Why scammers only want to steal your heart

Send us a textOur last episode told the story of Brittani Ard who had her heart stolen by a romance scammer. Well, technically not a romance scammer, he didn't ask for money, but he did want to be part of her life. He also wanted to be a part of the lives of many other women at the same time.In this episode, we ask Dr. Cortney Warren about whether this is a love con, a sex con or something else. She helps us understand why some people want to steal hearts, not money.Why would a guy describe

Nov 14, 2024 • 25:34

A pastor may have misunderstood God and ripped off his flock

A pastor may have misunderstood God and ripped off his flock

Send us a textWe''ll tell you about a pastor who said he may have misunderstood God by selling cryptocurrency and an 82-year-old woman you don't want to mess with. She set up a successful sting to catch a scammer.Then there is a Cricket Wireless store in Athens, Georgia that was hit by a scam, resulting in a loss of approximately $12,000. The incident involved a fraudster posing as a company vice-president and sent an employee out to buy the tools needed to break into a safe.Learn

Nov 4, 2024 • 13:20

Want to see a great picture of your house? Ask a scammer.

Want to see a great picture of your house? Ask a scammer.

Send us a textScammers are getting personal by sending email to you, by name, and including pictures of your home. If you don't pay up, they promise to release your confidential information.Police arrest a scammer, release him on bail and the process repeats itself 13 times. Why?Hear these stories and more on Scams & Cons.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 28, 2024 • 12:32

Some scammers steal your heart for love, not money

Some scammers steal your heart for love, not money

Send us a textThis is not an episode about romance scams. The techniques involved are the same, but it seems to me that it involves love, sex and attraction to many women at a time. Never does the scammer ask for money or favors, but the scammer does receive trust and love.This is the strangest story I've told so far. Listen in and tell me what your think. contact@scamsandcons.comYou Probably Think This Story Is About YouSupport the podcastLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f

Oct 24, 2024 • 28:38

Is Brad Pitt a romance scammer?

Is Brad Pitt a romance scammer?

Send us a textIs Brad Pitt a romance scammer? How did CoinStar get caught up in a scam? Did half the people in a survey acknowledge they had been caught up in a scam or con?We have the answers on Scams & Cons News.Support the podcastLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 21, 2024 • 12:07

A scammer takes a man's money and his life

A scammer takes a man's money and his life

Send us a textA scammer convinced a man to turn over $8,000 to collect winnings from a bogus Publishers' Clearing House prize. The man hoped to help his family and when he realized he'd been duped, he took his own life.And a record company comes the the aid of a dying girl who was scammed out of Taylor Swift tickets and sent her to the Eras tour, all expenses paid.Support the podcastLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 14, 2024 • 11:42

Scammers invade local governments and steal your money

Scammers invade local governments and steal your money

Send us a textTaxes are the price we pay for a civilized society. Scammers are anything but civilized.In this episode, we'll tell you about how scammers get into public money and how they drain millions away. Public officials should know better and train employees in how to avoid scammers' traps. It's a bugaboo of mine, so you'll hear more stories in our News segments. It's a big issue. This is a great place to understand how vulnerable your money is.Support us on Patreo

Oct 10, 2024 • 18:53

Gold star families swindled and pickpockets use "touchless" credit card theft

Gold star families swindled and pickpockets use "touchless" credit card theft

Send us a textSomeone walking beside you can steal your credit card information without touching your wallet. We'll tell you how it's done and just because you died, doesn't mean landlords stop charging your rent, despite what the law says.Hear these stories and more on Scams & Cons, wherever you get your podcasts.Support the podcastLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 7, 2024 • 11:34

A 13-year-old girl tries to scam a pensioner out of his life savings

A 13-year-old girl tries to scam a pensioner out of his life savings

Send us a textA 13-year-old girl is used as a money mule for scammers trying to grab a man's life's savings. Fake monks seeking money from monastery clones, and a scammer didn't realize the mark's phone number had changed and now belonged to a federal agent. It did not go well for the scammer.Hear these stories and many more on Scams & Cons News, wherever you find podcasts.Support the show!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 30, 2024 • 12:00

Magicians compare their deceptions to those of con artists

Magicians compare their deceptions to those of con artists

Send us a textMagicians are masters of deception. So are con artists. I went to a magicians' convention to see how they compare.Listen as magicians talk about their techniques and whether they are similar to how con artists work.It's a fun episode with lots of laughs.Thank you very much!Support us on Patreon!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 26, 2024 • 27:49

Karens in California try to scam beachgoers

Karens in California try to scam beachgoers

Send us a textIn this week’s news, con artists are preying on people released from jail, telling them that there are expenses that must be paid and scammers are scamming scam victims with promises of getting their money back. Then there are those in California trying to drive beachgoers away from the shoreline. Guess who the real scammers really are!Support us on Patreon!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 23, 2024 • 13:00

A Minnesota city loses more than $1 million, but doesn't want the public to know

A Minnesota city loses more than $1 million, but doesn't want the public to know

Send us a textAnother government loses money to a scammer, but this time it tries to hide it from taxpayers.And truckers are targeted with scams to steal their money and their loads.Scary stuff. Listen to Scams & Cons News to learn more.Support us on PatreonLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 16, 2024 • 18:25

The marks who should have known better

The marks who should have known better

Send us a textYou'd think people who are at the top of their game -- the big money folks -- would be savvy enough to not get scammed. You'd be wrong.There are all kinds of people who have the intelligence and ability to spot a con, but are taken in anyway.Today we'll tell you their tales, what scams took them in and how it worked.Support us on Patreon!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 12, 2024 • 27:09

Scammers are leasing homeowner's pools for parties without their knowledge

Scammers are leasing homeowner's pools for parties without their knowledge

Send us a textIn this week’s news, scammers are leasing private swimming pools for parties and the homeowners aren’t pleased. Gold is gaining ground on gift cards as a way of paying off scammers and we tell the story of a scammer who topped off his victim's phone card to continue a pitch.Support us on Patreon!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 9, 2024 • 10:32

Scammers use pastors to hit their marks

Scammers use pastors to hit their marks

Send us a textIn Arkansas, scammers are tricking pastors into urging parishioners to buy gift cards. Another city loses more than a million to scammers and city leaders believe it was a good thing. And in Las Vegas, skimmers are being used to copy credit card information before running up huge bills.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 2, 2024 • 8:58

Season 7 is about to begin!

Season 7 is about to begin!

Send us a textSeason 7 begins Sept. 2 and there's a lot to talk about.Scams & Cons News moves to Monday and a new edition will come out each week.Regular episodes will continue on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. We've got stories about child birth scams, easy money scams and interviews with magicians who compare their skills of misdirection against those of con artists.It's going to be fun! See you in September -- and don't let me lose you to a summer love!

Aug 22, 2024 • 1:13

Scammer robs family of $15k vacation. Smart TVs may be tricking you into giving up personal information

Scammer robs family of $15k vacation. Smart TVs may be tricking you into giving up personal information

Send us a textIn this week's news, we'll tell you about a woman who lost a half million dollars in a Social Security scam, con artists who offer up free pianos, then trick the customer into paying high shipping fees. You'll also hear how your smart TV could be robbing you.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 15, 2024 • 11:21

A man disguises himself as a woman to scam the groom out of his estate

A man disguises himself as a woman to scam the groom out of his estate

Send us a textIn this week's news, a man disguises himself as a woman to scam the groom out of his estate and pet owners are being told their companions are in danger in order to con people out of medical expenses.Hear these stories and much more on this week's Scams & Cons News.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2024 • 7:56

Woman told she is on "secret probation" and loses hundreds of thousands of dollars

Woman told she is on "secret probation" and loses hundreds of thousands of dollars

Send us a textWoman told she is on "secret probation" loses hundreds of thousands of dollars, 60 Minutes Australia asks if Belle Gibson is a liar and Canadian police bust an international scam ring.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 18, 2024 • 13:47

REPLAY: Hoaxes vs Scams

REPLAY: Hoaxes vs Scams

Send us a textWhat's the difference between a hoax and a scam? Are they the same thing? In this episode, we take a crack at the answer -- unless this whole program is a hoax.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 11, 2024 • 15:42

Woman falling down escalator marks return of pigeon scam

Woman falling down escalator marks return of pigeon scam

Send us a textA woman falling down escalator marks return of pigeon scam, members of British Parliament get caught in a honey trap and a Pennsylvania man loses $165,000 to romance scammer. Hear these stories and much more at ScamsAndCons.com or wherever you get podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 4, 2024 • 10:04

An Uber driver was killed while delivering a package for a scammer and a Canadian scammer is in jail for a $175 million e-mail fraud in the U.S.

An Uber driver was killed while delivering a package for a scammer and a Canadian scammer is in jail for a $175 million e-mail fraud in the U.S.

Send us a textAn Uber driver was killed while delivering a package for a scammer and a Canadian scammer in jail for a $175 million e-mail fraud in the U.S. while a man cons people into letting him use their phones, then drains their bank account.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 20, 2024 • 10:14

Woman scammed by promise of free home make-over

Woman scammed by promise of free home make-over

Send us a textA woman scammed by promise of free home make-over, a scammer tries to hoodwink Drew Barrymore's guests and an Alabama woman has admitted to faking her own disappearance after earlier claiming she had been kidnapped.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 6, 2024 • 12:44

Clean and green -- washing your checks

Clean and green -- washing your checks

Send us a textWhen you write a check, you expect it to be secure, after all, you did write it in ink.That means bupkus unless you used a secure check and security pen. These days, scammers can use household chemicals to eliminate what you have written and fill in the blanks with whatever they want to whomever they want. They will even trace your signature so the banks won't notice.In this episode, we'll tell you about the rising crime of check washing and how you can protect yourself f

May 23, 2024 • 21:10

A scam leaves a man in a coma and a woman's home is stolen

A scam leaves a man in a coma and a woman's home is stolen

Send us a textAn East Tennessee woman stops a scam by people posing as a representatives of Publishers Clearing House and a Wisconsin woman must pay taxes on $200,000 she lost to a scammer. A federal law once protected such victims from taxes. The law was cut.We also tell the story of a Toronto man who encountered a scammer that left him physically broken and unable to walk.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 16, 2024 • 13:46

Why steal your identity when all scammers need is a synthetic you?

Why steal your identity when all scammers need is a synthetic you?

Send us a textIdentity theft was once fairly easy. Watch someone's mailbox for a credit card offer, then send it in with a new address; discover something like your Social Security number, then route that money to their bank account. There were lots of ways.But now there's a new one -- a fabricated synthetic identity. It's you without really being you. It can take your money in a quick hit or drain your money slowly.In this episode, we'll tell you how it's done and what

May 9, 2024 • 40:36

A boy amputates his legs to get insurance month and "ghost hacking" sends messages to the deceased family

A boy amputates his legs to get insurance month and "ghost hacking" sends messages to the deceased family

Send us a textIn separate incidents, a man and a woman are arrested for romance scams. A boy in Taiwan agrees to have both legs amputated to gain insurance money and a woman who wanted a puppy pays the money, only to be told it's a scam.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 2, 2024 • 12:56

Faking your death

Faking your death

Send us a textIt sounds exotic to fake your death, then just walk away, expect it almost never works. One woman was found in her home closet. Another was found by just pinging her phone.Then there is the woman who researched how to fake her death and took it so far as to hold her own death certificate in her hands.There are many ways to fake your death, but we don't advise that you try them ... unless your willing to sacrifice your own body.Frank AhernBooks by Frank AhernLearn more about yo

Apr 25, 2024 • 23:13

News: A Nebraska woman is conned out of a gold bar a woman buys the wrong kind of gift card, frustrating a scammer, but still losing her money

News: A Nebraska woman is conned out of a gold bar a woman buys the wrong kind of gift card, frustrating a scammer, but still losing her money

Send us a textNews: A Nebraska woman is conned out of a gold bar and a woman buys the wrong kind of gift card, frustrating a scammer, but still losing her moneyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 18, 2024 • 12:29

Witness Protection Programs -- it's not an easy way to vanish

Witness Protection Programs -- it's not an easy way to vanish

Send us a textt would seem if federal and state governments wanted you to disappear for your safety, it would be an easy thing to do. They can create all the documents you need, give you some money to get started and grease the wheels needed to get a new job.If only that were the case. Being uprooted is just as difficult -- if not more so -- than taking a powder on your own.In this episode, you'll hear from some people who were scooped up in the night to disappear and you'll hear from

Apr 11, 2024 • 16:29

Woman recovers $147k from scammer and a man tries to own the New York Hotel

Woman recovers $147k from scammer and a man tries to own the New York Hotel

Send us a textWoman recovers $147k from scammer and a man tries to own the New York HotelLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 4, 2024 • 14:30

Hear from Maureen, a woman whose husband disappeared and she doesn't know why

Hear from Maureen, a woman whose husband disappeared and she doesn't know why

Send us a textThe theme of this series has been the long con of vanishing. Instead of a scammer targeting you, you are the one scamming everyone else. To be successful, you must do this the rest of your life, making it possibly the longest con of all.Maureen is the victim of this con. Her husband went missing and while she verified he was still alive, she doesn't know why he left -- or even if he is still alive.In this episode, you'll hear her tragic story and her best guess on what re

Mar 28, 2024 • 26:37

Scammers break into a physician's prescription system, creating orders for tens of thousands of addictive drugs and a lawsuit has been filed against CitiGroup for not doing enough to protect customers

Scammers break into a physician's prescription system, creating orders for tens of thousands of addictive drugs and a lawsuit has been filed against CitiGroup for not doing enough to protect customers

Send us a textScams & Cons News for March 21, 2024Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 21, 2024 • 11:12

Vanishing: Where to go and dealing with loneliness

Vanishing: Where to go and dealing with loneliness

Send us a textOnce you've decided to vanish, the question is: where do you go?In this episode we explore those possibilities and what you need to keep in mind when choosing a place.The odds are you'll end up somewhere that's not familiar and among people you don't know. That loneliness is one of the main reasons that a vanishing con fails. We'll tell you how people cope with that ... and sometimes it just means living on the street.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

Mar 14, 2024 • 13:19

Woman uses soap opera scheme in attempt to kill husband; catfishing scam hits business for $4 million

Woman uses soap opera scheme in attempt to kill husband; catfishing scam hits business for $4 million

Send us a textScams & Cons News for March 7, 2024Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 7, 2024 • 9:16

Vanished: How to go missing and avoid those searching for you.

Vanished: How to go missing and avoid those searching for you.

Send us a textThe longest con of all may be vanishing -- leaving the place you know, going somewhere unfamiliar and never having contact with anyone or anything from your past life.In this episode, we tell you how to go missing and avoid those who will be looking for you.Private Investigative ServicesLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 22, 2024 • 24:27

Scams & Cons News: Scammers use a smartphone with Bluetooth to steal 800 gallons of gasoline and the DEA accidently gives $500,000 to scammers

Scams & Cons News: Scammers use a smartphone with Bluetooth to steal 800 gallons of gasoline and the DEA accidently gives $500,000 to scammers

Send us a textScams & Cons News for February 15, 2024Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 15, 2024 • 11:08

The longest con of all -- vanishing. Why would anyone want to do it?

The longest con of all -- vanishing. Why would anyone want to do it?

Send us a textA good scam creates a reality where the mark thinks it makes perfect sense to go along with the con. A great con is when everyone else is fooled and you are the only one to know the truth.The next few episodes are about the longest con of all -- vanishing. These are people who voluntarily disappear. It does not include those who are running for the law or legal obligations. It doesn't include those in witness protection programs. It's about people who want to abandon one

Feb 8, 2024 • 14:56

Season 6 -- A user's guide

Season 6 -- A user's guide

Send us a textRegular listeners are accustomed to hearing about different variations of a con in each regular episode. In season six, we're doing something different. We'll be focusing on one con -- vanishing.Vanishing may be the longest con of all because, if you're successful, no one will hear from you again.We'll talk about why people want to voluntarily disappear. We won't be talking about those trying to escape the law or legal obligations. Our focus will be on thos

Feb 8, 2024 • 5:53

Scams & Cons News: A dating app leads to a carjacking and are you being smished?

Scams & Cons News: A dating app leads to a carjacking and are you being smished?

Send us a textAre you being smed? It's a scam that involves both texts and social engineering. A dating app leads to a carjacking in Florida and a Swiss bus museum. A cashier stole more than $1 million between 2008 and 2019 by reselling museum tickets twice.These stories and MUCH more on Scams & Cons News.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 1, 2024 • 9:24

BONUS: Lee Goldberg tells how he writes scams into his books and TV shows

BONUS: Lee Goldberg tells how he writes scams into his books and TV shows

Send us a textAny con, any story of a con, begins in the head of the author. Lee Goldberg isn't a con artist -- unless you count how he leads readers toward wrong conclusions -- but he does write successful books and TV shows that involve cons.In this episode, Lee talks with us about how he does it, how he comes up with his ideas and what it's to deal with publishers and television story runners. It's a great listen.Lee GoldbergLee's WorksMalibu BurningDreamtownLearn more abo

Jan 25, 2024 • 23:10

REPLAY: Luxury scams

REPLAY: Luxury scams

Send us a textWhat time is it? 4:23? Thanks.You could have gotten the answer from your phone, a sign in front of a bank or dozens of other sources. So, why spend $150,000 for a Rolex to give you the same information.Luxuries are perceptions and scammers use those perceptions to make you think you're getting a very good deal on something that can perform the same function for far fewer dollars. Scammers have exploited those dreams for centuries, but now marketers have refined those technique

Jan 18, 2024 • 18:27

REPLAY: Three Card Monte - Remastered

REPLAY: Three Card Monte - Remastered

Send us a textIt’s a simple game. It’s just a guy flipping three cards on top of a worn cardboard box.If you’re the sucker, the game is easy. It’s meant to be that way. A lot of effort by a lot of people has gone into creating that scene. No wonder Three Card Monte is called the longest running show on Broadway.The sucker sees it as a game of skill. They believe they can outwit the tosser. What the sucker doesn’t realize is that the game is not about the cards, it’s about getting the sucker to p

Jan 11, 2024 • 18:15

REPLAY: The Russian Bride Scam

REPLAY: The Russian Bride Scam

Send us a textIf you are a six and a 10 shows interest in you, at the very least you’d feel flattered. You might even spend a little time with them just to feed your ego.And if that contact happens online, it seems even better. No dinners to buy. No gifts to exchange. And you can walk away at any time.But if the person on the other end of the line is a scammer, it might not be as easy as you think. You’ll be showered with attention, endless flattery and the person will seem to have a genuine int

Jan 4, 2024 • 17:33

See ya next year

See ya next year

Send us a textWe're taking a break for the holidays, but we'll be back early next year. In the meantime, please enjoy some replays that have been a hit among our fans.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 28, 2023 • 1:59

Miracle cures have arrived! Whatever the ailment, they will do the job

Miracle cures have arrived! Whatever the ailment, they will do the job

Send us a textThink of all the music jingles you've heard over the years, promising that this pill or that one will help prevent cancer, ease your aching bones or guarantee you a longer, healthier life.It's snake oil and in this episode we tell you the difference between Western medicine, alternative medicine and outright frauds.Pay close attention, because some people will swallow anything.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 14, 2023 • 24:01

Scams & Cons News: Funeral home scammer takes money from widow, bank disses woman who was scammed, asking if her husband did it, and more!

Scams & Cons News: Funeral home scammer takes money from widow, bank disses woman who was scammed, asking if her husband did it, and more!

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 7, 2023 • 13:00

Robo calls -- How they work, who makes them and how you can cash in by listening

Robo calls -- How they work, who makes them and how you can cash in by listening

Send us a textWe've done stories about robo calls before, but this one is different -- we're telling you how the technology works, who makes the calls and how you can make money by simply listening to the sales pitch, getting answers to a few questions and mail a complaint.robocalls@scamsandcons.comKit for challenging robo callsSample challenge letterLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 23, 2023 • 15:53

Scams & Cons News for November 16, 2023

Scams & Cons News for November 16, 2023

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 16, 2023 • 7:35

You can be the victim of a con. Here's how.

You can be the victim of a con. Here's how.

Send us a textOur lasts episode asks how con artists reconcile the impact of their actions and how it harms their victims beyond the money they have stolen.This time we ask what is it about people that make them suckers for scammers. Certain behaviors signal scammers that we're good for some cash. Listen in and find out what they know about you and how they use it against you.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 9, 2023 • 20:41

Scams & Cons News for November 2, 2023

Scams & Cons News for November 2, 2023

Send us a textScammers are pulling gasoline dispensers from customers' hands to fill their own cars.Canadian women are more willing to report scams than men.And ProPublica says a scammer has succeed in getting people kicked off Instagram, then blackmailing them to release the account. He claims to have made $300k off the con.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 2, 2023 • 12:08

Justification: Scammers explain why they do what they do

Justification: Scammers explain why they do what they do

Send us a textScammers might take people for a little or a lot of money. Sometimes their scams ruin people's lives and leave them feeling unsafe -- maybe for the rest of their lives.In this episode, scammers tell us how they became scammers and how they rationalize what they do.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 26, 2023 • 19:46

Scams & Cons News for October 19, 2023

Scams & Cons News for October 19, 2023

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 19, 2023 • 7:08

Imposters: Which is real: Batman or Bruce Wayne?

Imposters: Which is real: Batman or Bruce Wayne?

Send us a textScammers become other people to convince you to turn over your money, but sometimes they want something else. Your pity, your admiration or your love.We take a look at imposters and why they do what they do.And check out the Pretend podcast. It's one of our favorites and when you hear Javier's story about a reported stalker, you'll be amazed!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 12, 2023 • 16:44

Scams & Cons News for October 5, 2023

Scams & Cons News for October 5, 2023

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 5, 2023 • 8:04

Time travelers are scamming thousands

Time travelers are scamming thousands

Send us a textPeople are coming back from the future. Some want computers to help solve problems for which the need ancient software, while others need some cold, hard cash to survive in this primitive world of ours.People are handing money over to these con artists without asking a simple question: Why are future IT people too stupid to keep their technology up-to-date and they need to travel back in time so we can fix it for them?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 28, 2023 • 16:43

Scams & Cons News September 21, 2023

Scams & Cons News September 21, 2023

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 21, 2023 • 11:08

How to train pick-up artists

How to train pick-up artists

Send us a textCon artists are using wanting to get into your pants for a wallet, but there are those who are looking for something else.In this episode, we tell you how pick-up artists, wings and matchmakers work.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 14, 2023 • 19:01

Scams & Cons News for September 7, 2023

Scams & Cons News for September 7, 2023

Send us a textLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 7, 2023 • 8:18

This is no misdirection, Season 5 begins Sept. 7. To get things going, here's a full episode on Misdirection

This is no misdirection, Season 5 begins Sept. 7. To get things going, here's a full episode on Misdirection

Send us a textSeason 5 launches September 7 and here's a full episode on how con artists use misdirection to sucker people in.We believe Season 5 is our best yet with stories about pick-up artists, time travel scammers, how con artists justify what they do, fake medical cures and much, much more.Plus we're going weekly with our new feature called Scams & Cons News that will bring you up-to-date with real scams happening in the field right now.We look forward to being back with you

Aug 17, 2023 • 18:48

Scams & Cons News for July 20, 2023

Scams & Cons News for July 20, 2023

Send us a textScams & Cons News begins officially this September, but we thought we'd give you and update on some of the things happening this summer.See you in September!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 20, 2023 • 9:51

Introducing Scams & Cons News

Introducing Scams & Cons News

Send us a textI'm headed off on summer hiatus and to produce shows for Season Five. I'm really excited about Season Five because we're producing shows on Pick-Up Artists,  Time Travelers and Imposters -- plus a lot more. It will be fun!We'll also be adding a new feature called Scams & Cons News about recent scams from around the world. This episode provides a preview and I'd love to hear what you have to say, so drop me email at news@scamsandcons.com.Scams & Cons

Jun 1, 2023 • 10:01

Bits and Pieces

Bits and Pieces

Send us a textEvery now and then we come across stories that are so unique or rare that they don't merit their own episode, but that doesn't mean they should be forgotten.In this final episode of Season 4, we bring you stories of jetpacks, sucker lists and counterfeit whiskey. They have nothing in common except that they're interesting and they fool thousands.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 18, 2023 • 17:57

Donation scams: Give until you bleed

Donation scams: Give until you bleed

Send us a textUnfortunately, the world has endless examples of people in need. The ones that real deserve our consideration, but the ones that are false ... those are the ones that deprive others of help they may desperately need.Whether it's a person seeking help for a relative who has cancer, a homeless man who gave up his lasts $20 to help a stranger or those jars you see in convenience stores seeking aid for someone in your community, you can bet there are scammers ready to count on you

May 4, 2023 • 23:30

Three tales that continue to fool the world

Three tales that continue to fool the world

Send us a textThe "War of the Worlds" broadcast. The "Fountain of Youth." The "Cardiff Giant."Odds are you have heard of at least two of these three scams, but it's also likely you don't know the whole story. Even textbooks get it wrong. Don't worry, we're here to help.We'll set you straight, despite what's in your fourth-grader's history book. The Cardiff GiantThe Farmer's MuseumMarvin's Marvelous Mechanical MuseumLearn

Apr 20, 2023 • 31:53

Using the media to fool us

Using the media to fool us

Send us a textIf you want to fool thousands, you have to be able to reach thousands and mass media is built just for that purpose.Companies and pranksters have longed used these tools to peddle their tales, but don't be deceived. They still want your money -- they just want to distract you while they talk you out of it.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 6, 2023 • 17:38

Medical secrets: How politicians hid life-threatening conditions that could have halted their political careers

Medical secrets: How politicians hid life-threatening conditions that could have halted their political careers

Send us a textHow would you feel if a person who had the power to destroy the world had a debilitating medical condition. Would you vote for them, unsure how they would perform in a crisis? Politicians don't want to find out, so they keep secret vital information the public needs to make informed choices.And what about a senator, who had legally been deemed incompetent by a judge because of her dementia, continued to vote on public issues for four months?And there is the president who chose

Mar 23, 2023 • 27:27

Harry Truman and the Kansas City mob

Harry Truman and the Kansas City mob

Send us a textTwo brothers turned their bar into a political machine that ruled Kansas City. From 1925 to 1939, the Pendergast brothers lined many pockets -- mostly their own -- by controlling public projects and contracts.They ran the city, the county, the state and, eventually, helped Harry Truman into the White House.We'll tell you how it was done, how taxpayers were aware of it and why they went along.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 9, 2023 • 23:03

Stadiums: Teams use a proven and legal plan to use your money to build new stadiums

Stadiums: Teams use a proven and legal plan to use your money to build new stadiums

Send us a textNew stadiums can cost several billion dollars to build and who wants to spend that kind of money when the public could foot most of the bill?True, there are some owners who have shouldered the entire cost, but those are rare.In this episode, we tell you how teams prepare years in advance to use fan money as no-interest loans, to avoid taxes on their share of the stadium revenues and gin up excitement among fans to drive up the cost -- and profits -- of a new venue.And it doesn&apos

Feb 23, 2023 • 23:28

Bribery: How American corporations, the State of Illinois, Walmart and Fat Leonard steered public money their way

Bribery: How American corporations, the State of Illinois, Walmart and Fat Leonard steered public money their way

Send us a textSuppose you wanted to build a new building for your business. You'd check the zoning laws, apply for the proper permits and hire a licensed contractor to do the work. These laws are intended to protect you and others from shoddy work that can lower the value of your new facility.It works pretty much the same in Mexico, but Walmart understood that putting some money in the right people's pockets could bypass local and U.S. laws to get the job done exclusively and cheaper.A

Feb 9, 2023 • 23:11

Alabama sheriffs use 1939 law to starve prisoners and pocket the savings

Alabama sheriffs use 1939 law to starve prisoners and pocket the savings

Send us a textIn 1939, Alabama gave local sheriffs control over prisoner food budgets. They could decide how the money was spent and what food was served.If they spent less than what was budgeted, the rest of the money would not go back to the county, it would go legally into the sheriffs' pockets. Hey, what could go wrong?It wasn't until 2019 when the Alabama legislature changed the law so any excess funds would go back into public coffers.Before then, sheriffs abused prisoners so the

Jan 26, 2023 • 22:21

Season Four begins in two weeks!

Season Four begins in two weeks!

Send us a textWe're making a pivot in Season 4. Having run you though all of the scams run on individuals, we're taking a look at con jobs run on thousands or millions of people.Our teaser tells you what you need to know. The new season begins in just two weeks.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 12, 2023 • 4:39

Introducing Scamapalooza!

Introducing Scamapalooza!

Send us a textIt's my second favorite scam podcast. Visit Scamapalooza's website for more episodes.Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 5, 2023 • 42:02

A fan favorite and the end of season 3

A fan favorite and the end of season 3

Send us a textThe holidays are upon us and with them, the end of Season 3. We'll be back in January with Season 4.Expect some changes for Season 4. We'll be focusing on scams run against the public. Things like the bribery of public officials, the political machine of Tom Pendergast in Kansas City and an Alabama law that allowed sheriffs to steal funds intended for feeding inmates to fund vacation homes and more. In one case, two sheriffs split the $1,000 cost for a trailer of corn dog

Dec 1, 2022 • 15:44

Twins: They may look alike, but they don't work as a team

Twins: They may look alike, but they don't work as a team

Send us a textIt's a mystery writing trope: Twins commit a crime, but can't be punished because they look alike. You should expect better than that from Scams & Cons and we're here to deliver.In this episode, we have stories of twins who ran their own scams, usually in different areas of the country and the fact that they were a twin had nothing to do with the scams they ran. In most cases, they ended up running different scams entirely.Is it nature or nurture? We'll tell

Nov 17, 2022 • 15:21

Luxury scams: Luxury can't be stolen -- it's a state of mind

Luxury scams: Luxury can't be stolen -- it's a state of mind

Send us a textWhat time is it? 4:23? Thanks.You could have gotten the answer from your phone, a sign in front of a bank or dozens of other sources. So, why spend $150,000 for a Rolex to give you the same information.Luxuries are perceptions and scammers use those perceptions to make you think you're getting a very good deal on something that can perform the same function for far fewer dollars. Scammers have exploited those dreams for centuries, but now marketers have refined those technique

Nov 3, 2022 • 19:51

The Mustard: Pockets cleaned at no extra charge

The Mustard: Pockets cleaned at no extra charge

Send us a textGolly, I'm sorry I spilled that mustard on your jacket, please let me help you clean it off. Mistakes happen, but this was no mistake. You've just been distracted long enough for someone to lift your wallet or steal your briefcase or luggage. Unfortunately, by the time you realize that, that helpful lady has vanished.This really old scam is called The Mustard this form of it is fading into history. The Mustard is now played differently in a form that safer for the scammer

Oct 20, 2022 • 14:47

We caught him because we could: Frank Abagnale Jr. still conning us

We caught him because we could: Frank Abagnale Jr. still conning us

Send us a textRemember the movie "Catch Me If You Can?" It was based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr. Abagnale is still conning us -- and making good money doing it. Like any good con artist, the trick is in misdirection. He doesn't want us to see prison files that show he was in jail during much of the time he outlined his escapades. He doesn't talk about stealing expensive camera equipment from a summer camp. He doesn't talk about pretending to be a doctor at Arizona

Oct 6, 2022 • 32:46

Cults: I know what's best for you. Give me your money and abandon your family. You'll be glad you did.

Cults: I know what's best for you. Give me your money and abandon your family. You'll be glad you did.

Send us a textIn Greek mythology, The Sirens were beautiful women with the upper bodies of humans and the lower bodies of birds whose bewitching songs lured sailors to their doom. Their singing lured sailors would try bringing their ships close to shore where they would either crash their ships or sailors would jump overboard and drown.Today's sirens are cult leaders, their methods draw you in, convince you they can ease your pain and making you part of their family, all along siphoning off

Sep 22, 2022 • 19:04

Blackmail: I know a guy who knows a guy. Know what I mean?

Blackmail: I know a guy who knows a guy. Know what I mean?

Send us a textScammers and con artists generally trick suckers into handing their money over willingly. Blackmail is intended to have you believe you have no choice but to pay up, even though you know they'll be back for more.Experts nearly universally believe that blackmailers should not be paid and they rarely come through on their threats. But at the time, you're scared and afraid to turn to anyone for help because you must confess what it is that the blackmailer is threatening you

Sep 8, 2022 • 22:21

A quick look at voter registration fraud

A quick look at voter registration fraud

Send us a textScams & Cons will be back in two weeks, but before we return, it seemed timely to talk about voter registration fraud.Registration fraud is different from voter fraud in that it seeks to change documentation. Voter fraud is when someone who is ineligible attempts to cast a ballot.We're apolitical here, but we do want to make sure that everyone who is eligible to vote, gets to vote. Listen in a find out how to protect your rights.Our regular Scams & Cons episodes return

Aug 25, 2022 • 10:41

Awww... I've missed you guys

Awww... I've missed you guys

Send us a textThe new season of Scams & Cons begins Sept. 8 with an episode about Blackmail, but in the meantime, we thought we'd share one of our most popular episodes -- Parking Lot Scams.Parking Lot ScamsSome would say parking lots themselves are scams: $20 for two hours. Really?!!!They are also places where, for at least a short time, you’re trapped. When backing out of your parking space, someone could rap on your window, and ask for money to buy food or for a bus ticket to get hom

Aug 11, 2022 • 16:46

Summer break! We'll be back in the fall!

Summer break! We'll be back in the fall!

Send us a textSummer is for kicking back on the porch with some cheap wine and hot wings -- that is unless you live here in the Southeast where temps of 90+ have been common for about three weeks now.Instead, we'll be kickin' back here at the ranch reflecting on the ending of Scams & Cons' second season and the upcoming Season 3 coming this fall. We're already well at work with stories about blackmail, cults and the Mustard Con.We'll be in touch when we get ready sta

Jul 14, 2022 • 2:04

Music scams: Both musicians and listeners can be off-key

Music scams: Both musicians and listeners can be off-key

Send us a textThe hills are alive with the sound of scammersSinging lies and deceits that are decades old.Their songs fill my heart with hopes of stardom,But they just steal my songs and leave me broke.Musicians that travel to Nashville, Los Angeles, New York, Austin and other music centers are looking for a break and scammers step right up to boost their egos and brag about the now-famous who became stars only after meeting them.It’s quite a temptation and hopefuls rarely do the due diligence t

Jun 30, 2022 • 22:48

Sweepstakes scams: You may already be a loser!

Sweepstakes scams: You may already be a loser!

Send us a textYou open a letter that tells you that you've won a huge about of money in a sweepstakes you don't remember entering. Just send some money to cover taxes and fees and those riches will be  yours.You're a winner, but only if you toss that piece of mail in the trash. Sweepstakes scams come in many shapes and forms and we all want to believe that fortune has smiled upon us, but it likely hasn't. Particularly if that letter is postmarked standard presort -- a class u

Jun 16, 2022 • 18:38

Credentials scams: Not worth the paper it's written on

Credentials scams: Not worth the paper it's written on

Send us a textIf an FBI agent appeared at your door, flashed a badge and said she had a few questions for you, would you comply? Would you ask to see the badge again. Would you know what an actual badge should look like?Those badges, diplomas on the wall and other credentials can be easily faked. We'll tell you how and what you can do to protect  yourself. I'm qualified to do it. I have a PhD in Philosophy from Springfield University. It says so on the diploma that hangs on my wall.Lea

Jun 2, 2022 • 19:29

Coupon scams

Coupon scams

Send us a textThose little slips of paper -- coupons -- are real money and someone has to pay for the discount you just received. It could be the store, the manufacturer or someone else. You may have paid for it before you left the house.The world of coupons is complicated and there are lots of ways scammers can creep in. The average person is the most common way. It happens when we buy coupons online or try to print our own.Then there is the coupon processing system that provides another entry

May 19, 2022 • 16:23

Long cons: Patience is the reward

Long cons: Patience is the reward

Send us a textThree-card-monte can take all your money in fewer than eight minutes. Long cons can take days, weeks, months or years -- just ask Bernie Madoff.The con artists generally have to put up significant amounts of money to pull it off.  They usually enlist others and must gain use of offices and facilities.On top of that, they have to think on their feet because many things can happen over time. You've got to be good to run a long con and in one case we'll tell you about, the s

May 5, 2022 • 18:35

Sex scams

Sex scams

Send us a textDon't you just hate it when the new $5,000 sex doll you ordered turns out to be a cheap knock-off? Or that super-fun-pack of condoms you bought is counterfeit?Men thinking with the wrong head are mostly the victims of these crimes, but their variety may surprise you. Like that help-wanted ad you saw for a sex toy tester. I don't want to spoil this one -- you just have to listen.Vice article about online adult gamesLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adcho

Apr 21, 2022 • 17:34

Art scams -- the play's the thing!

Art scams -- the play's the thing!

Send us a textArt scams are like no other. They are like a theatrical play with scammers and art forgers producing, writing and directing the show. Even the suckers are part of the script, anxious to play their roles, even when they suspect there may be an unhappy ending for them.The majority of the rules that apply to most scams, don't apply here. Some people get involved for fame, some for ego and others for fortune. Those that are in it for fame or ego, usually don't get a cut of th

Apr 7, 2022 • 22:05

Unbelievable cons

Unbelievable cons

Send us a textMost cons are well planned. After all, the con artists don't want to go to jail.But sometimes, things come together in such a way that the scams have to be pulled off quickly while the con artists make things up on the spot.Today we'll tell you the story of three scams that were run only once. OK, there's a fourth one, but you'll know it when you hear it. Listen closely.The Kitchen Table HistorianLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 24, 2022 • 14:37

The Pigeon Drop: No dry cleaner required. Scammers will clean you for free.

The Pigeon Drop: No dry cleaner required. Scammers will clean you for free.

Send us a textRecently -- and I kid you not -- I found a $100 bill as I got into my car after buying groceries. It was on the ground beside my door, folded in thirds. I immediately thought someone was setting me up for a Pigeon Drop, but no one approached and no other people were around, so I put the bill in my pocket.It took weeks before I used that money. Finding $100 is just too rare a thing. I wondered if it was counterfeit. I eventually went to a bank, they looked the bill and marked it. It

Mar 10, 2022 • 15:04

Pet scams: Karma's a bitch

Pet scams: Karma's a bitch

Send us a textThe idea of unconditional love is unknown to scammers, unless you're talking about a sucker's money. There's never a trick they aren't willing to perform for a treat -- except being told to "stay."Doggone it, we should have seen it coming, but there's more involved than companionship. Our emotions get wrapped up and that makes us perfect suckers.Listen in and we'll tell you how to protect yourself.Colin Butcher - Pet DetectiveLearn more about

Feb 24, 2022 • 16:40

Valentine's Scams: I love you, but I love your money more.

Valentine's Scams: I love you, but I love your money more.

Send us a textFalling in love is a risk, but on Valentine's Day, we're all suckers. We're sharing our love by telling what to look out for.A scammer's poemWords of love from my keyboard make your heart take flight,So don’t mistake my plea for money as a reason for fright.My needs are genuine and my motives are clear, So please wire your money so I can disappear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 10, 2022 • 14:36

We're back Feb. 10, but first, a warning about QR codes

We're back Feb. 10, but first, a warning about QR codes

Send us a textSeason Two of Scams & Cons begins Feb. 10 with an episode on Valentine's Scams. It will be good to see you again, but don't feel as if you need to send flowers.While we were putting that episode together, something caught our eye -- QR code scams. It requires no human interaction and there are only a few ways you can see it coming, so we decided to do this mini-episode telling you all about it.XOXOLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 27, 2022 • 9:32

Scams & Cons is back in February, but first ...

Scams & Cons is back in February, but first ...

Send us a textScams & Cons will be back with new episodes in February, but until then, we thought we’d share some information about the man pictured in the corner of our logo – Victor Lustig.Lustig conned Al Capone and sold the Eiffel Tower twice. That's how he earned his corner seat. Other con artists have sold public monuments, so to tide you over until the new season, we’re sharing their stories.Buy Me A CoffeeLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 6, 2022 • 9:22

As Season 1 ends, it's beach time!!! Season 2 begins in February.

As Season 1 ends, it's beach time!!! Season 2 begins in February.

Send us a textI have sand between my toes, a perfectly positioned  chaise lounge and plenty of suntan lotion. It's a welcome break to mark the end of Season 1.Fear not! I've already begun work on Season 2 with stories about ... well, listen in to this 3-minute episode where you can join me on the beach and I'll tell you all about it.Until next year, be happy, healthy and watch out for scammers and con artists.And stay safe.P.S.  I need to ask a favor and it has nothing to do with

Dec 2, 2021 • 4:10

Tools of the con artist's trade

Tools of the con artist's trade

Send us a textCarpenters need hammers and saws. Cooks need pots and pans. Con artists need a good story to tell and a mark to believe it.In this episode, you’ll learn about the basic skills a con artist needs to succeed. Strap your tool holster on for this apprentice class on how to set up and execute a successful con.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 18, 2021 • 15:49

House stealing: No good deed is scam-proof

House stealing: No good deed is scam-proof

Send us a textDon’t you just hate it when you come home from vacation to find that some scammer now owns your home? Or when con artists move in, and the law allows them to stay while you go through a long court battle to have them evicted?House stealing is a real thing and it is frighteningly easy to do and once you learn how the scam is run, you’ll never want to leave home again.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 4, 2021 • 17:48

Blinded by scam science

Blinded by scam science

Send us a textScience explains life's mysteries using procedures intended to weed out false results and outright lies. That process doesn't always work.Don't worry, Scams & Cons is here to help. We'll tell you how fake science happens, the people who flush it out, why DNA evidence isn't that reliable and how Charlie Hatfield (maybe) made it rain.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 21, 2021 • 19:05

The grave undertakings of con artists

The grave undertakings of con artists

Send us a textWhen tragedy strikes, you’re vulnerable and that makes you a prime target for con artists. Death is a time when we’re most vulnerable. Scammers sweep in to sell family history books, offers to bring your loved one back to life through cryogenics, and unneeded and expensive caskets that are destined for incineration. Even before death, scammers may sell you a pre-need policy, then disappear with your money, leaving your insurance worthless. In this episode about death scams, you’ll

Oct 7, 2021 • 14:29

Parking lot scams: Why you give money to strangers even when you know you're being conned

Parking lot scams: Why you give money to strangers even when you know you're being conned

Send us a textSome would say parking lots themselves are scams: $20 for two hours. Really?!!!They are also places where, for at least a short time, you’re trapped. When backing out of your parking space, someone could rap on your window, and ask for money to buy food or for a bus ticket to get home. There is no escape and you must deal with the situation somehow.There are many more scams that depend upon confronting you in vulnerable moment. In this episode, you’ll learn what they are and how co

Sep 23, 2021 • 18:05

Scams vs Hoaxes

Scams vs Hoaxes

Send us a textWhen the Trojans rolled the horse into their city, they thought they were claiming the spoils of war. Instead, it was a hoax that eventually allowed the Greeks to sneak in and destroy their city.So, is a hoax a scam, or is it the other way around? Fortunately, Ian Keable stops by to sort it for us as we talk about the differences. His new book, The Century of Deception: The Birth of the Hoax in Eighteenth Century England, includes tales about Ben Franklin and a woman who gave birth

Sep 9, 2021 • 18:52

Lottery scams

Lottery scams

Send us a textAdmit it, you’ve played the game that asks “What would you do if you won a lottery?” The first step is to make sure you actually won a lottery.Lottery scams abound. Some trick people into sending cash to cover a few fees and taxes before the winnings can be sent to them. Others approach actual winners as experienced, trusted advisors only to pad service fees. Then there are those who try to cheat the lottery itself by rigging the game to offer up predetermined numbers.It’s said tha

Aug 26, 2021 • 16:27

The Badger Game

The Badger Game

Send us a textWhat’s the first thing you do when you trip on the sidewalk – you look around to see if anyone noticed and, if so, did they laugh.But what if you were recorded comparing bits and pieces with someone on the internet? Maybe someone caught you with an illegal substance in your pocket or, as we describe in this episode, ride escalators in hopes that someone will take an upskirt photo of you. This is the badger game. You can call it extortion or blackmail, but this scam sets a trap and

Aug 12, 2021 • 13:05

Impersonation scams

Impersonation scams

Send us a textImpersonators hide in plain sight. They tell you who they are and back up their claims. Trusting soul that you are, you think, “why would they lie?”They lie because they want your money and they use other people’s credibility to gain your trust.Some of these scams are relatively harmless. The con gets a free meal, maybe a hotel room or some other relatively low-value prize. Other impersonators go for big treasure. They pretend to be movie stars (you’ll hear Tyler Perry tell you abo

Jul 29, 2021 • 12:05

So, you want to be a star?

So, you want to be a star?

Send us a textFame comes at a price. Scammers want your money and don’t care if it also costs you your self confidence.Those trying to get noticed are vulnerable and the path to success is different for everyone. It often depends upon getting to the right person at the right time. To increase your odds, you’ve got to put yourself out there and hustle. You’ll fail a lot, but that’s how the game is played.This makes you a perfect mark -- you must depend upon the kindness of strangers and put yours

Jul 15, 2021 • 18:55

Carnival Cons

Carnival Cons

Send us a textEven at a distance, you’ll know the carnival is in town. You can see the lights of the Ferris Wheel. Maybe you can hear the screams of people on one of the rides to scare the hell out of you. When you arrive, you’ll smell fresh popcorn … the carnies smell a sucker.Except for the prices, the rides are straight. No con there. No short pours on the drinks because you can see how high the liquid is, although the cup may be smaller than those you are accustomed to or the bottom is inset

Jul 1, 2021 • 13:29

Advertising scams: But wait ... there's more!

Advertising scams: But wait ... there's more!

Send us a textHave you tried this new air freshener? A herd of stallions could spend the night in your house and with one puff of this spray, you’d never know they were there! And this kitchen gadget is fantastic! It slices and dices, makes ice cream and turns rancid meat fresh again. It’s just amazing! No, it’s not. It’s false advertising and it’s a scam. There are laws that are supposed to protect us from that, but they are not difficult to skirt. You’ve heard of miracle supplements than can c

Jun 17, 2021 • 18:38

Psychics

Psychics

Send us a textYou may be psychic!In fact, there is a good chance  you are – or could be. The Census Bureau says one of the fastest growing job descriptions in this decades will be psychics. As of this writing, PsychicPro Job Center has one client with 25 immediate job openings.If you don’t feel qualified, psychic training is readily available.Don’t expect us to answer the question of whether psychics are bona fide – OK, they are fradulent – but you will learn how the business works and the tools

Jun 3, 2021 • 18:43

The Russian Bride scam

The Russian Bride scam

Send us a textIf you are a six and a 10 shows interest in you, at the very least you’d feel flattered. You might even spend a little time with them just to feed your ego.And if that contact happens online, it seems even better.  No dinners to buy. No gifts to exchange.And you can walk away at any time.But if the person on the other end of the line is a scammer, it might not be as easy as you think. You’ll be showered with attention, endless flattery and the person will seem to have a genuine int

May 13, 2021 • 18:05

The Money Box

The Money Box

Send us a textUnless you work for the U.S. Mint, odds are you can’t print legal currency. But if you could print money, it’s unlikely you’d get much sleep for a while. Once you were rested, you would crank up the printer again and begin shopping for an elegant place to lay your head. Your personal chef will bring milk and warm cookies to your bedside so you can easily fall asleep.We all want easy money, but unless an unknown rich relative dies and leaves you a fortune, it’s not likely to happen.

May 13, 2021 • 15:45

Three Card Monte

Three Card Monte

Send us a textIt’s a simple game. It’s just a guy flipping three cards on top of a worn cardboard box.If you’re the sucker, the game is easy. It’s meant to be that way. A lot of effort by a lot of people has gone into creating that scene. No wonder Three Card Monte is called the longest running show on Broadway.The sucker sees it as a game of skill. They believe they can outwit the tosser. What the sucker doesn’t realize is that the game is not about the cards, it’s about getting the sucker to p

May 13, 2021 • 19:08

TRAILER: Scams and Cons

TRAILER: Scams and Cons

Send us a textWhy would anyone give thousands of dollars to a Nigerian prince? Or play Three Card Monte – it’s a well-known scam? Or be lulled into a marriage with someone you’ve never met face-to-face.Scammers and con artists do it all the time and the Scams and Cons podcast pulls the curtain back and tells you how it is done.Trust us. You should subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 22, 2021 • 0:56

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