Debbie Deem Helps Victims of Transnational Fraud
Debbie Deem has spent the past four decades helping crime victims, including a stint as a victim specialist for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She’s worked with people who’ve experienced assault, trafficking, and terrorism, among other horrific crimes. Retired since 2019, she’s now a volunteer advocate and coach who focuses on what she describes as transnational fraud victim assistance.
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In addition to feeling intense emotions like embarrassment, despair, and betrayal, the added isolation of judgment often only worsens a victim’s mental health, Deem says. Yet Deem helps victims and their families focus on their recovery, connecting them to as many resources as she can marshal.
Figure out your needs
More than a third of Americans have been defrauded or scammed in the past year, according to the results of Bankrate’s latest financial fraud survey. Among those victims, two in five people were robbed of their money. Thieves stole sensitive information as well.
Despite the prevalence of fraud, Deem says that some victims don’t tell anyone what happened to them. They may feel ashamed or rightly worried about a loved one’s critical response. In Deem’s experience, family members of older victims sometimes look at their loved one differently, and decide that they’re unable to take care of themselves because of cognitive issues.
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Deem says that every victim has different needs in their recovery. For people who’ve been defrauded by an imposter who posed as someone trustworthy, like a law enforcement officer or love interest, the sense of betrayal and subsequent paranoia can run deep.
Don’t blame yourself
Anyone can be the victim of fraud, says Dr. Anthony Pratkanis a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of California at Santa Cruz.
Pratkanis has conducted extensive research on scammers and victims. He’s never identified a victim profile, which he believes is because criminals who practice fraud use social influence as a key weapon.
Reframe negative thoughts
Fraud victims often think negatively about themselves after they’ve been deceived.
But Asia Schmidt, a licensed clinical addiction specialist, says it’s important for victims to normalize their experience. Instead of branding themselves stupid, for example, victims should remember that they’re human, and that someone took advantage of them by preying on their emotions.
Seek peer and professional support
Experts agree that it’s important for victims to talk about their experience, but note that victims benefit most when their conversation partner can demonstrate understanding and empathy.
Amy Nofziger, director of fraud victim support for AARP’s Fraud Watch Network, says that many victims come to their first meeting feeling quite alone. Nofziger says that she’s noticed participants’ tense posture relax once they realize they’re amongst people who know what they’ve endured.
Conclusion
Fraud victims often face a range of emotions, from embarrassment to despair and betrayal. It’s essential for them to seek support and resources to help them recover. By reframing negative thoughts, seeking peer and professional support, and focusing on their needs, fraud victims can start to rebuild their well-being.
FAQs
Q: What is transnational fraud?
A: Transnational fraud refers to the use of sophisticated methods by organized international criminal networks and gangs to steal money and valuable data from their targets.
Q: How can I prevent myself from being a victim of fraud?
A: To prevent fraud, be cautious of unsolicited messages, emails, or phone calls. Verify the identity of individuals or companies before sharing personal or financial information.
Q: What resources are available for fraud victims?
A: There are many resources available for fraud victims, including the AARP Fraud Watch Network, FightCyberCrime.org, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Q: How can I get support for being a victim of fraud?
A: You can get support by talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking professional help from a therapist, or joining a support group specifically for fraud victims.
