Introduction
Con artists are known for using deceptive tactics to swindle unsuspecting individuals out of their money or belongings. Throughout the years, they have developed a unique language or slang to communicate with each other and avoid detection. In this article, we will delve into the slang used by cons and explore its meanings and implications.
Playing the Game
One of the most common terms used in the con world is ‘playing the game.’ This refers to the act of engaging in a con or scam to deceive a target. It is like a game for con artists, where the ultimate goal is to outsmart their victim and walk away with a profit.
Inside Job
Another slang term frequently used by cons is ‘inside job.’ This denotes a scam that involves an individual with insider knowledge or access to a particular situation. It could be an employee of a company using their position to carry out a fraudulent scheme or someone with inside information about a potential victim.
Mark
A ‘mark’ is a commonly used term in the con world to describe a potential victim. It could be someone who appears gullible, naive, or easily manipulated. Cons often target marks based on these characteristics, making it easier for them to carry out their scams successfully.
Case Studies
- The Ponzi Scheme: One of the most infamous cons in history, the Ponzi scheme was named after Charles Ponzi, who defrauded investors out of millions of dollars. Ponzi promised high returns on investments but used the funds from new investors to pay off existing ones, creating a cycle of deceit.
- The Nigerian Prince Scam: A classic email scam where con artists pretend to be Nigerian royalty in need of financial assistance. They promise a large payout in return for a small investment, but in reality, it’s all a ploy to steal money from unsuspecting victims.
Statistics
According to the Federal Trade Commission, over 1.1 million cases of fraud were reported in 2020, with a total loss of $3.3 billion. These numbers highlight the prevalence of cons and the need for awareness and vigilance among the general public.
Conclusion
Understanding the slang used by cons can help individuals identify potential scams and protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. By staying informed and alert, we can outsmart the con artists and prevent ourselves from becoming marks in their elaborate games.
