Conmen, such as Jeffrey Epstein and Bernie Madoff, rely on extensive networks of respected businessmen, religious leaders, charitable organizations and even past lovers to maintain their reputations. With promises of celebrity networking, work opportunities, lucrative investments or even access to sexual partners, these serial predators seduce many unsuspecting enablers to vouch for their credibility as they search for prey.

They carefully lay the foundation to entice new mouthpieces who will validate their business acumen, their philanthropic endeavors or outstanding moral character. Since the majority of us do not question a new acquaintance’s background or accomplishments, we take them at face value especially if we have something to gain. Add meticulous media campaigns or large charitable donations, suddenly the average individual – starstruck by glamour or wealth – forgets to do the needed background checks or ask what these philanthropists stand to gain with their gifts. Remember Harvey Weinstein’s donations. His extensive involvement with AmfAR gave him and his buddies the opportunities to cavort with young models and actresses under the auspice of fundraising. Jeffrey Epstein’s gift to Harvard led to his mingling with celebrity scientists and developing his friendships with Dr. Eva Andersson-Dubin, the founder of the Dubin Breast Center at Mount Sinai and Leon Black, a billionaire investor and the chairman of Moma museum. These individuals gave Jeffrey Epstein enormous social currency, bolstering his reputation after his release from prison in 2009.

In other words, conmen, no matter what the size of the con or where they are located, immediately and painstakingly establish their credibility through various channels. They go where wealth is firmly established such as large cities and popular vacation spots. Bernie Madoff had homes in the Hamptons and Palm Beach which confirmed his status among the wealthy, giving him access to new prey. As soon as well-known individuals are ensnared by these predators, their names help conmen trap others. For example, Madoff convinced established New York charities to invest their money with him by using the names of his famous clients/victims including Elie Wiesel. Elizabeth Holmes of Theranos targeted older, renown men for her board such as Henry Kissinger and George Shultz. Although these men knew nothing about medical blood tests, they provided Holmes credible reputations in order to find new investors and to hide behind.

These serial con artists, furthermore, have enormous help from an army of people already placed in their elaborate schemes. These “friends” or “staff”, whether knowingly or not, keep the wheels turning on several fronts: bringing fresh targets, helping the predator’s image through praise or obfuscation, engaging in smear campaigns against detractors or silencing previous victims with money or through shame, thus effectively invalidating and isolating the survivors. If they are aware, then they too are exhibiting sociopathic and criminal behavior as Guislaine Maxwell, the British heiress, did by trolling for teenage girls to satiate Jeffrey Epstein’s appetite. Others turn a blind eye in return for favors for themselves or friends and family.

All predators thrive in secrecy. By keeping their various social circles separate, or engaging in triangulation, conmen keep their schemes from unwitting colleagues and acquaintances. They hide their sexual deviancies, operating in multiple cities and towns. The wealthiest of predators employ expensive lawyers and publicists to thwart attacks. They sue victims or dangle non-disclosure agreements with money to avoid scrutiny. They make any wild claim about their victims in court to stonewall investigations. They collect reputable citizens – scientists, politicians, celebrities – to bolster their credibility. They dole favors, both large and small, to everyone who they believe will prove useful in maintaining their ruse.

So how do you protect yourself?

Unfortunately, unless verified through numerous channels including LexisNexis, CourtLink, or the criminal division of the IRS, the average person cannot confirm if their new charming businessman is a good guy or not. But there are clues that can help you protect yourself.

  1. If it seems too perfect, it is. No one should get the financial returns that Bernie Madoff said that he had with his fund. Nor should anyone believe in the science fiction of Theranos. Just because a friend is doing business with a “brilliant guy” doesn’t mean you should. Do your homework. Don’t be blinded by fairy dust.
  2. Avoid strangers or new acquaintances who are too charming, too glib, too friendly, too touchy, or too perfect. Elizabeth Theranos purposely lowered her voice to convince venture capitalists that she was capable. She always had the right answers, cultivating her wardrobe to remind her targets of Steve Jobs. Jeffrey Epstein and Jordan Belfort who inspired “The Wolf of Wall Street” also had the accouterments of wealth with an abundance of charm and intelligence.
  3. Beware of extravagant gifts and favors. Gifts are never free. Accepting a gift carries an implicit obligation to reciprocate in kind. Jeffrey Epstein frequently flew VIPs on his plane engaging in influence peddling. What his passengers saw, I’m sure they won’t divulge.
  4. Notice sexual promiscuity. Many predators brag or allude to the number of lovers they have had as well as where and when they had them in the first few meetings. By engaging in risky behavior, it demonstrates where their priorities are and where they are not.
  5. Be extraordinarily cautious if someone seeks thrills and excitement. This usually indicates a lack of self control which can spiral into self-destruction.
  6. Secrecy. Beware of anyone who refuses to divulge important business information on your investment, giving you excuses why things are going wrong without sufficient evidence to support these claims.
  7. Avoid people who compliment or flatter you excessively while blaming or criticizing others. Although flattery may feel good, it may be a ploy to keep you from asking investigative questions or speaking with their latest victims.
  8. Beware of aliases. If someone has numerous passports, burner phones, or addresses, you are forewarned that you are dealing with a predator and not someone who is preparing for the Apocalypse or a CIA agent.
  9. Pathological lying indicates character disordered personalities. If you catch anyone in more than two lies, run. They are untrustworthy. And no reason can excuse it.
  10. Predators frequently use pity to seduce victims. In fact, it is their number one tactic. They will say anything to achieve their goal whether in business or personal relationships. If someone gives you a sad story when meeting you, especially in order to become your lover, beware.

In summary, predators have no conscience, no empathy or emotion for their victims. Just watch the videos on Chris Watts, Scott Peterson, Jeffrey Epstein, Bernie Madoff or Elizabeth Holmes. All they want, is to win at any cost, lying to achieve their desires and using anyone to give them credibility. Do not fall into their trap.