The Confidence Game

Konnikova argues that cons exploit ordinary human trust and desire, rather than only a victim’s lack of intelligence.

A convincing relationship can lower the scrutiny normally applied to a stranger’s claim.

Promises can become especially persuasive when they match what someone badly wants to be true.

An emotionally satisfying explanation can substitute for independent confirmation.

The book follows how a swindle develops from selecting a target to managing the aftermath.

Believing you could never be fooled can itself make a suspicious story harder to question.

• Responsibility remains with the fraudster; vulnerability is not consent.