questions such as:
“Does this add up?”
“Have I seen this information contradicted elsewhere?”
“What is this person’s motive for sending this information?”
An open mind is not the same as being gullible. Having an open mind is being inquisitive and discerning. If I am unsure about something or something doesn’t add up, I take the time to look into it further. Einstein’s theory of independent thinking is helpful in this situation because I am to question what I am told, even by “trusted” sources.
Contribution Over Status
I have also learned that those people who’ll do anything to attain their status, likes, and followers, are easier to be scammed. This is because scammers know how to take advantage of our need to be successful or powerful. They offer us shortcuts, exclusive deals, and membership in elite groups.
Instead of chasing status, I try helping others and make contributions. This isn’t only good for your character, but also for your security. When your focus is not on how you are seen, you are less likely to be swayed by empty promises.
Spotting Inconsistencies
Another favorite tool of mine is looking for inconsistencies. I’ve found that most scams are not very good at this because they often change stories or contradict themselves in some way. They also often create a sense of urgency that just isn’t there in real life. So, when I see this kind of thing happen, I take a moment to look deeper.
For instance, I was offered an investment that guaranteed me my return in just one week. It was almost too good an offer to be true. By asking questions and verifying their credentials, I was quickly able to see that they weren’t even registered with the SEC.
