by Kamryn Adams

Created on: September 08, 2009

You can't turn on the evening news without hearing about a scam artist. As if Enron didn't set the tone years ago, we now have Bernie Madoff types out there scamming people for hundreds of thousands of dollars. It's such a shame that we have to be on guard for deceitful people who make it their life's ambition to fool us. But, the best offense is a good defense so here are three ways to recognize a deceitful person. Ask! Look! Breathe!

#1- Ask Questions (My favorite)

Asking questions will flush out a liar quicker than Drano flushes out your pipes. When someone starts to go on and on about what they are doing, where they've been, who they know simply start asking questions. Most times a deceitful person will get angry and defensive when you ask questions. They'll uses phrases like, "I swear" and "to be honest" in the answer, but you must listen carefully to hear if they really answered your question. Deceitful people talk a lot and usually fast. Interrupt them every so often with a questions. This is especially helpful if the person is trying to sell you something or get something from you.

#2 Make Eye Contact

Though there are some exceptionally deceptive people who can look you in the face and tell a lie, most liars and cheats will not make eye contact with you. You've heard people talk about "shifty" eyes. That is how deceitful people look in conversation. They only make eye contact with you every so often and when they do it's only for a quick second before looking away. Hold your stare and lock in on the person's face so that when they come back to your eyes you are right there with them. Usually their ears or neck is red. If the person can't look you in the eye, they are more than likely telling a lie.

#3 Take Your Time

If someone is trying to scam you they want to make it quick and painless. Most crooks aren't as sophisticated as Bernie Madoff. When you are faced with someone that gets defensive or can't make eye contact with you, then it's time to back up and take a breather. Anyone that pushes to make a decision "right now" is probably shady indeed. If the person threatens you with some kind of penalty or circumstance, chances are they are scheming you. A great deal today is a great deal tomorrow. Sleep on it before you give someone your money or access to your belongings.

You're not going to catch every snake roaming in the garden but if you use the three techniques above it will certainly flush out most of them. Deceitful people prey on vulnerable and unsuspecting targets. Ask, Look, and Breath will make you an unattractive target for predators looking to take advantage of you.

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