How NOT to be swindled or conned

by YoursChelbie 8 Replies latest jw friends

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  YoursChelbie

  Hi everyone! At this time of the year I like to contemplate on the lessons learned during the

  previous year.

  I have a question for anyone wanting to share their own experiences: Have you been swindled or conned this year or previously? Did you believe someone who lied to you?

  As a result did you lose money or valuable time?

  How would you avoid a situation like that in the future?

  Did you have a particular weakness or fascination that the other person exploited?

  Having only been out of Borg for a few years, I have found that I'm not as

  "worldly wise" as I would like. Any wisdom you can pass on will be much appreciated.

  YoursChelbie

  Edited by - YoursChelbie on 21 December 2002 17:4:21
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  Gig

  Always measure someones information against another's. Make sure you have the pros AND the cons...and be honest with yourself about just how much your emotions are affecting your decisions. Trust is earned, credibility must be maintained, truth and honesty is imperative. What you hear from others is opinion, which change, even the good ones. Make up your own mind AFTER you do the due diligence. Don't dwell so much on your own mistakes that you miss the lessons that can be learned from others mistakes. Examples are great, even when they are of what NOT to do.

  A few ideas for starters. This will sound elementary but...don't worry, be happy. It works.
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  blondie

  Trust No One

  Fox Mulder
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  kelsey007

  A couple of simple policies: If it sounds to good to be true it probably is not true. And most cons play on a persons greed (of which we all have a bit) When I need a roofer- I call a roofer- I dont react when one comes knocking at my door offering the "to good to be true deal".
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  YoursChelbie

  Thanks for your responses.

  I'll take your advise to heart...

  Gig

  truth and honesty is imperative

  Blondie

  sobering thought:

  Trust No One

  kelsey007

  If it sounds too good to be true it probably is not true.
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  freedom96

  If I had only one word to describe not being conned or swindled, I would say:

  POSTURE

  If you stand up for what you are saying and believe in, be direct, take control of the situation, you are more likely not to be a victim.

  When conducting a business transaction, there is no reason not to be friendly, but at the same time realize it is a business transaction, and let the others know what you expect. Stand up, be noticed, and you should be just fine.

  The other recommendation, is to not do anything without thinking about it away from the situation.
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  back2dafront

  Lessons I've learned:

  1. NEVER buy from an unrated user on any online auction. I got ripped off by an identity theft. If the seller does not want to take steps to ensure his legitimacy, do not trust him/her.
  2. Do not trust "friends" with your personal belongings or possessions. Most people in the borg are honest-hearted, but that's not the case in the "world." You really have to pick and choose your associates - most with unstable lifestyles are prone to be untrustworthy; such has been my experience at least.
  3. Do not trust the Service Department of any automobile dealership. :-P It's better to find a trustworthy local mechanic for out of warranty issues. Dealerships will try to convince you something more is wrong with your car. They are very greedy for money and will take advantage of those who are not mechanically inclined. If you're not mechanically inclined and wish to work through a dealer, take someone with you that knows about cars.
  4. When making an agreement with someone that involves a significant amount of money, ALWAYS sign a contract.

  Just a few pointers. Hope they help....
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  larc

  I agree with backtodafront, on his last point. If you have a transaction to make, follow these three rules. 1. get it in writing. 2. get it in writing. 3 get it in writing. Even though I know this, one time I did not do it, and it cost me $1,200.
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  TresHappy

  Best way to not get swindled: ask friends for a referral. Check with the BBB, ask for references, get the estimate in writing. Don't sign ANYTHING! If it's a legal document, get a qualified lawyer to look at it. Many people sign something and end up losing their house!