GANDHINAGAR: Our fascination with scams isn’t just about the thrill of the crime; it’s about understanding the dark side of human behavior. This playlist dives deep into the world of SCAMS, exploring the psychology of deception and the lengths people go to in pursuit of a grift.
From online catfishing to elaborate fake kidnappings, we’ll unravel the tactics scammers use and learn valuable lessons to protect ourselves. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride through the world of scams – it’s educational and entertaining in equal measure!
Reply All: “#102 Long Distance” (July 2017, 51 min)
The tables are turned on a phone scammer when he targets podcast host Alex Goldman.
The Perfect Scam: “The Virtual Kidnapping of a Gymnast” (October 2022, 35 min)
In the “The Virtual Kidnapping of a Gymnast” a terrifying scam unfolds as a mother receives a call claiming her daughter has been kidnapped.
Sweet Bobby: “1. Sliding Doors” (October 2021, 31 min)
A seemingly harmless online connection explodes into a major betrayal.
Throughline: “Planned Obsolescence” (December 2019, 35 min)
“Planned Obsolescence” uncovers the strategy behind products designed to fail prematurely.
Swindled: “Bonus: The Promotion (McDonald’s Monopoly)” (January 2020, 24 min)
In the podcast “The Promotion (McDonald’s Monopoly)” learn about a decade-long scheme that rigged McDonald’s Monopoly game.
Reply All: “#103 Long Distance, Part II” (August 2017, 48 min)
): Find out how to report a tech support scam and other resources.
Criminal: “Episode 51: Money Tree” (September 2016, 29 min)
In the early 90s, when identity theft was a growing but poorly understood threat, Axton Betz-Hamilton’s family unknowingly became victims. With limited resources available to them, they struggled to rebuild their lives. Years later, as a young adult, Axton discovered her own identity had been compromised, leading to a shocking revelation: the culprit was someone close to home. This discovery, and the identity of the perpetrator – a woman named Pam Elliot – would forever alter Axton’s life.
Nobody Panic: “How to Spot a Scam” (August 2022, 37 min)
Learn valuable tips to avoid becoming a victim of deception.
Code Switch: “The Original ‘Welfare Queen’” (June 2019, 32 min)
“Welfare queen” – a hateful label born from a single case. Linda Taylor’s abuse was real, but politicians weaponized it. This episode exposes how they twisted the truth, painting all aid recipients as criminals, to undermine vital support systems for those in need.