scam

A scam is a fraudulent scheme designed to deceive individuals or groups, often with the intent of obtaining money, personal information, or valuables through dishonest means. Common examples include phishing emails that mimic legitimate companies to steal login credentials, pyramid schemes promising unrealistic returns on investments, or fake charity appeals that exploit people's goodwill. Scammers typically use psychological tactics like urgency, fear, or promises of quick riches to manipulate victims. Originating from carnival slang in the early 20th century, the term has evolved to encompass digital frauds like online romance scams or investment cons. To avoid falling prey, always verify sources, avoid sharing sensitive data impulsively, and report suspicious activities to authorities, as awareness and skepticism are key defenses against these pervasive threats in modern society.