Scammers and con artists are predators. Like any predator, they don’t pick random victims. Instead, they look for specific traits that signal an easy target. Unfortunately, many women are socialized to have these habits. We are taught to be “nice.” However, that “niceness” can be a dangerous liability.
1. You Are Excessively Polite
Perhaps you won’t hang up on a rude telemarketer. Maybe you answer a stranger’s intrusive question. This politeness is a green light. It tells a scammer you will not create an awkward social scene. Therefore, you will be easy to control. You must learn that “No” is a complete sentence.
2. You Apologize Needlessly
“Sorry to bother you…” “Sorry, just a quick question…” This habit signals low status, which immediately frames you as submissive. A predator sees this. Consequently, they know you are unlikely to fight back or question them. Stop apologizing for taking up space.
3. You Overshare on Social Media
Your posts reveal your new job, your recent breakup, or your travel plans. This is a goldmine for scammers. Specifically, they can use these details to build rapport (a romance scam) or to answer security questions (identity theft). Your privacy is a shield.
4. You Have a Deep Need to Be Liked
Scammers thrive on validation. Therefore, if you seem eager for approval, they will use it. They “love bomb” you with praise. Because you crave this, you ignore red flags. This applies to romance and business scams. Healthy people, after all, don’t need to rush affection.
5. You Are Conflict-Avoidant
You would rather do something you don’t want to do than have a difficult conversation. A scammer will exploit this. For instance, they will keep pushing, knowing you will eventually cave just to make the confrontation stop. Practice saying “no” firmly.
6. You Trust Authority Without Question
The call says it’s the “IRS” or “the bank,” and you panic and comply. Scammers rely on this. Women, in particular, are often taught not to question authority figures. You must learn to verify everything. Instead, hang up and call the official number yourself.
7. You Publicly Express Loneliness
Posting about being lonely or looking for “the one” is like blood in the water for romance scammers. In fact, they specifically search for these keywords. It makes you a prime target for their manipulative scripts. Keep your vulnerability for trusted friends.
8. You Use Weak or Reused Passwords
This is a digital social habit. It’s the equivalent of leaving your door unlocked. You prioritize convenience over security. Consequently, one data breach at one website can compromise your entire life. Use a password manager.
9. You Think You’re “Too Smart” to Be Scammed
Pride is a dangerous habit. Scammers love people who think they are too smart, as it means their guard is down. The most successful scams, in fact, are designed to flatter your intelligence. Humility is a safety tool.
10. You Cave to a Sense of Urgency
“This offer expires in 10 minutes!” “Your account will be locked NOW!” This tactic bypasses your logical brain. After all, scammers know that if you pause to think, you’ll see the scam. As a result, your habit of reacting immediately is their best tool. Always pause.
11. You Ignore Your Gut Feeling
That “small voice” tells you something is wrong. But he seems so nice. The deal seems so good. Therefore, you ignore it. This is the biggest mistake. Your gut, after all, is your primary defense system. It is processing micro-cues your conscious brain missed.
“No” Is a Complete Sentence. Start Using It.
Protecting yourself is not “bitchy.” It is necessary. You do not owe strangers your time, your politeness, or your life story. Practicing healthy boundaries is your best defense. Ultimately, a scammer will hate it, while a good person will respect it.
What’s one “polite” habit you’re trying to unlearn to feel safer?
What to Read Next…
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- 6 Types of People Most Likely to be Targeted by Scammers
The post 11 Social Habits That Make Women Targets for Scammers appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
