Confidence Man

• Goals
  • Describe a confidence man.
  • Recognize such people and avoid being manipulated by them.

What?

A “confidence man” (often shortened to “con man”), is a person who gains the “confidence” or trust of others in order to deceive or exploit them.

• Analysis (Breakdown of ideas):

  • Confidence = Trust or belief in someone’s honesty or reliability.

  • Confidence man = A person (man or women) who wins your trust only to betray it for their personal gain.

For example, a classic con man might pretend to be a trustworthy banker, get people to invest money with him, and then disappear with the cash.

Rationale

If you’re skilled at recognizing confidence men, you can avoid manipulation, betrayal, and loss: financial, emotional, or reputational.

How to Recognize Confidence Men (or Women)

Look for patterns like these:

1. Charismatic and charming

• They seem unusually likable, confident, or persuasive.
• You may feel drawn to them quickly.

2. A compelling story

• They have a backstory or pitch that hooks you emotionally.
• It often involves past success, insider connections, or exclusive opportunities.

3. An offer too good to be true

• The deal, opportunity, or promise seems unusually perfect.
• You feel urgency or excitement that may cloud judgment.

4. Lack of verifiable evidence

• When you dig deeper, proof is missing, vague, or unverifiable.
• They may discourage you from doing research or checking with others

5. Distrust of others, trust in me

• They may subtly or directly say things like:
• “Don’t trust those people…”
• “Only I can help you…”
• This isolates you and directs all trust toward them.

6. Additional Clues (Optional but Insightful)

   • Pressure to act fast
   • “This offer won’t last…” or “You need to decide now.”
   • Inconsistencies in their story
   • Over time, details may not add up or change subtly.
   • They use flattery or play on emotions
   • “You’re smarter than most people…” or “I feel like we really understand each other.”