I’m changing the name of the “SCAMS AND SCAMMERS” series, into “MALANDROS IN ACTION”, where we delve into what I would like to call the “Modern malandro”, in today’s society. We will cover soe of the strategies they use with the hope that we don’t fall for them.
I cover the definition of a Malandro in another PAGE, but to summarize:
A malandro embodies cunning and trickery, skillfully navigating life through deception in various realms like love and business. This archetype is celebrated for resourcefulness yet condemned for a lack of morals, often depicted in folklore as a cautionary figure or symbol of rebellion. While typically associated with self-serving behavior, a malandro may use malandragem not to harm others but to escape unfair situations, even if it involves illegalities.
In fiction, malandragem serves as a wit device, characteristic of an antihero.
So, in this installment…
Today’s new era of con artists aren’t the hardened, film noir criminals of the past; they’re slick, manipulative social media scammers, or glamorous-looking hustlers determined to fake it until they make it. These modern tricksters are adept at crafting a polished persona online, utilizing platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to curate elaborate narratives that captivate unsuspecting followers. They seek power through first creating an image or idea around themselves, enticing others with promises of wealth, success, and happiness that seem within reach.
Con artistry is not just a desperate act; it’s about gaming the system to accrue influence and status, and then leveraging that into concrete gains. As they manipulate sentiments and exploit trust, the lines between authenticity and fabrication blur, creating a complex landscape where deception flourishes. This phenomenon has become even more pronounced in the digital age, where social media and online platforms serve as fertile ground for skilled manipulators to thrive. The accessibility of information allows con artists to craft meticulously tailored narratives that ensnare their targets, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to discern truth from fiction. Here’s our take on the modern con artist, and whether today’s scams and hustles are just becoming something we’re all expected to take part in, blurring the distinction between right and wrong in a society increasingly enthralled by the illusion of success. As we reflect on this unsettling trend, it raises critical questions about our collective moral compass and the values we hold dear in an era where the perception of success often trumps authenticity.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 