Don’t Get Played! 14 Sneaky Scams That May Be Happening to You Every Day

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As an informed and savvy consumer, you’re likely always on the lookout for scams.

After all, no one wants to be taken advantage of by nefarious scammers using deceptive tactics to swindle you out of your hard-earned money!

Unfortunately, many con artists today are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their strategies, which means that even if you think you know what to watch out for, there may still be several scams that have managed to slip under your radar.

We’ll look at 14 sneaky scams that could actually be happening right now without your knowledge.

1. Life in the Rat Race

All work, no play – this is the motto of today’s world. Many forum members highlight how it has been normalized to waste most of life working.

You start from the age of 18 and stop when you are 65. And before you know it, all of your life has gone by without you having time for yourself.

2. Dating Apps

Dating apps are becoming increasingly popular for connecting singles, but they can also be a playground for scammers.

It’s important to look out for any red flags in conversations or profiles that may indicate someone is not being honest.

Be sure to ask many questions, read reviews before signing up with any dating service, and never give out personal information!

3. Donating to the Rich and Famous: A Cautionary Tale

Donations are an excellent way of giving back to society. However, you must always be mindful of to who you donate money.

As one user mentions, you better avoid expecting influential figures with private jets to use the donation money well.

4. College Tuition: Paying to Make Money

Getting a college education is a point of contention for many. While some degrees are beneficial, many are not.

Plus, as one person points out, it is absurd that you have to spend an insane amount of money on college tuition before you can even make money.

5. The Unaffordable Health Care Dilemma

The insurance system is made extremely difficult to navigate. The profit-maximization approach of the insurance industry makes healthcare unaffordable.

As someone states, emergency rooms fill up, and rates are increased further to subsidize those who can’t afford the treatment. Plus, seeing an affordable family doctor without insurance is virtually impossible. What do you think? Did the internet get this right, or do you have something to add to this list?

6. The Lottery: State-Sponsored Gambling for the Poor

The lottery has been around for long enough to pass as the norm.

However, as someone aptly describes, it’s just state-sponsored gambling for low-income people. The irony is that folks who can least afford it spend the most on it.

7. Bottled Water

Bottled water is ridiculously overpriced, sometimes up to 500 times more than from the tap!

Plus, research has found that most bottled water contains contaminants and pollutants.

To avoid getting taken for a ride, opt for water filtration systems or refillable bottles instead.

8. The Mystery of the Unchanged Property Rates

Inflation is inevitable, but some price increases sometimes make no sense.

For example, as someone points out, it is ridiculous that rent increases due to “market value” when the property rates stay the same!

9. Homeopathy: The Placebo Effect or Filler Tablets?

Homeopathy is surprisingly popular for a remedy that is just a placebo. Someone calls the homeopathy medication “filler tablets.”

However, a second user responds by saying that continuing with homeopathy is no harm if the placebo effect is working. However, one shouldn’t forsake medical treatment when relying on homeopathy.

10. MLM: Multi-Level Menace

Multi-level marketing schemes are popular scams that can even get the best of us. One person shares how they were contacted by someone on LinkedIn who wanted to discuss a side hustle opportunity.

After questioning it, the MLM representative asked questions about distrusting the information via Google. Unfortunately, many MLM schemes are centered around preying on vulnerable individuals.

11. Lavish Nuptials for One Day

Imagine getting married to your significant other is the only way to validate your relationship. What’s worse is the social expectation to throw a lavish wedding.

Numerous people express their discontent with expensive weddings. It makes little sense to celebrate marriage in such a luxurious way for just one day and for the entertainment of others.

12. Diamonds: The Price of Love and a Limb

Numerous folks complain about the ridiculous cost of diamonds and, ultimately, engagement rings. A ring must cost an arm and a leg, or it needs to be better.

The diamond ring tradition is young, yet it has become a prevalent cultural norm. But hey, at least the diamond industry is booming!

13. Funeral Costs

It’s a sad time for those who have lost someone, and unfortunately, it can be made even worse by some unscrupulous funeral homes.

Some try to push expensive add-ons during a vulnerable moment, so make sure you stay alert and question any extra charges.

Even if you’re not in the market for a funeral quite yet, it’s still worth knowing the different costs involved and being aware of your rights.

That way you won’t be taken advantage of when the time comes.

14. Extended Warranty

Many retailers offer an extended warranty when you buy a product, but often do not cover everything and are usually offered on items that will last way beyond the expiration date..

Research the standard manufacturer’s warranty before signing up for any additional coverage. 

You might find that their guarantee is enough and save yourself some money in the process.

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This thread inspired this post.