Why Do Scammers Choose to Impersonate Others Online?
Online scammers and fraudsters often adopt false identities through elaborate profiles and narratives to deceive their victims. The rationale behind this tactic is multifaceted, rooted both in psychological manipulation and practical evasion of suspicion. Understanding the reasons behind these impersonations can help individuals, institutions, and law enforcement mount more effective defenses against such schemes.
Security and Credibility
The most compelling reason for a scammer to adopt a false identity is the need for security and psychological defense. By presenting as a credible, trustworthy, and respected individual, the scammer can diminish doubts and build trust. For instance, impersonating a retired doctor or engineer from a high-stress location, such as Syria, Iraq, or Yemen, provides a plausible need for immediate funds, which can be repaid once the situation improves.
The languages used and the socioeconomic backgrounds of these impersonated individuals are meticulously chosen to align with the scammer's intended victim's interests and needs. This personalization is critical in building trust and ensuring that the victim feels a connection with the impersonated individual.
Practical Reasons
Practically, scammers also impersonate others to avoid suspicion and detection. Authentic accounts of financial struggles, such as “frozen bank accounts”, add a layer of legitimacy to their claims. By stating that they cannot access their funds due to security issues or frozen accounts, the scammer creates an avenue for the victim to send money as a temporary measure.
Furthermore, the use of terms such as “security reasons” and the inability to access funds due to “frozen bank accounts” on oil platforms, serves to create a sense of urgency and moral obligation in the victim. This can result in the victim being coerced into sending large sums of money to rectify the situation.
Scammers also use the impersonation tactic to evade scrutiny by authorities. By presenting as a genuine professional or someone in a high-stress situation, they can minimize the likelihood of being reported to police or other organizations. The use of complex names, such as board schools or matrons, provides additional layers of confusion and diverts attention from the true identity of the scammer.
Psychological Manipulation
Psychological manipulation is another key driver of scammers’ impersonation tactics. Scammers create elaborate backstories to appeal to the emotional needs of their victims. Descriptions of themselves as god-fearing, always reading the Bible, and organizing Bible study sessions, contribute to a narrative that resonates deeply with certain individuals. This emotional connection fosters trust and makes the victim more likely to engage with the scammer.
Compelling examples include impersonations of single fathers or mothers who claim to be placing their children in boarding schools in the care of guardians or matrons. The need for funds to cover school supplies and other necessities can be particularly compelling, especially for parents who are concerned about the well-being of their children.
The use of specific details such as the names of the boarding schools, guardians, or matrons can further strengthen the legitimacy of the scammer's narrative. This personalized touch is designed to evoke empathy and a sense of urgency, making the victim more willing to provide funds.
Conclusion
No one would consider a genuine relationship with a scammer or be willing to send money to them. Thus, the scammers must continually create new identities to deceive and maintain the trust of their potential victims. By understanding the strategic use of impersonation, we can better identify and counteract these fraudulent schemes.
Empowering individuals with knowledge and awareness is crucial in the fight against online fraud. By recognizing the telltale signs of impersonation and taking proactive steps to verify information, we can effectively protect ourselves and others from financial and emotional harm.