High IQ Doesn’t Shield Against Scams, Expert Warns
Dr. Julia Kołodko, a behavioral economist, highlights that intelligence and education levels do not protect individuals from falling victim to scams. Older adults are particularly vulnerable, often targeted through psychological manipulation.
Scammers exploit emotions such as fear, urgency, and guilt to prompt impulsive decisions. For instance, a fraudster may impersonate a bank employee warning of account issues or pose as a relative in distress to create panic and reduce rational thinking. They also leverage trust in authority figures and social proof, exploiting people’s tendency to follow perceived norms or authoritative advice.
Dr. Kołodko explains that these vulnerabilities are rooted in evolutionary traits. While humans are attuned to immediate physical threats, they are less equipped to recognize deceptive dangers, making them susceptible to modern scams.
Understanding these tactics is essential for improving fraud prevention strategies and protecting potential victims.
