But behind this friendly exterior is a shrewd psychologist who can isolate potential victims and break down their resistance to his proposals. The typical con artist is amoral-but seldom violent, and mobile, with an excellent sense of timing. He sincerely believes his victims deserve their fate. And, if caught, he'll probably will strike again later. Con artists are seldom rehabilitated.
Many victims share certain characteristics.
Often, but not always, they are older, female, and live alone. Loneliness, willingness to help, and some sense of charity are characteristics a con artist will exploit to gain a victim's cooperation. The con artist ultimately will exploit his victim's assets-including life insurance benefits, pensions or annuities, 'nest eggs,' home equity, or other tangible property. And he'll usually obtain the willing cooperation of his victim to complete his scheme. Key Words A con artist is difficult to detect by looks alone.