National Scam Day

A group of individuals helping each other, wearing diverse professional outfits, in a modern office setting.. — National scam day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready for an article on National Scam Day? Well, buckle up and prepare to be enlightened about the fascinating world of scams!

When is Scam Day?

It's national scam day on the 28th March.

The History of National Scam Day

Every year on March 28th, the internet buzzes with discussions about scams and the art of trickery. National Scam Day is a time to raise awareness about the wide array of scams that exist in the world and to educate people about how to protect themselves from falling victim to these devious plots.

The origins of National Scam Day can be traced back to the rise of the internet and the increasing prevalence of online scams. As technology advanced, so did the tactics of scammers, making it essential for individuals to stay informed.

How to Celebrate National Scam Day

Celebrating National Scam Day is all about empowering yourself with knowledge. Here are a few ways you can mark this day:

Spread awareness: Share information about common scams and how to avoid them on your social media profiles.
Protect your loved ones: Take the time to talk to your friends and family about scams, as they are often the most vulnerable targets.
Stay vigilant: Keep yourself informed about the latest scams and techniques used by scammers to stay one step ahead.
Report scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to the relevant authorities to help protect others.

A Fun Fact for National Scam Day

Did you know that scammers are so skilled at their craft that they can even create fake websites that look identical to the real ones? It's important to always double-check the URL to ensure you're on a legitimate site!

History behind the term 'Scam'

1599

Origin in Thieves' Cant

The term 'scam' finds its origins in the slang language known as Thieves' Cant, which was commonly used by criminals and underworld figures in England during the 16th century. In 1599, the term 'scam' first appeared as a verb, meaning 'to trick or deceive.' Thieves' Cant provided a secret code for criminals to communicate covertly while avoiding detection by the authorities.

1940

Emergence in the American Lexicon

During the 1940s, the slang term 'scam' made its way into the American lexicon. It became more widely recognized as a noun, referring to a fraudulent scheme or deceitful act. Its usage expanded beyond the criminal underworld and became part of everyday language. The term 'scam' gained popularity due to its concise and punchy nature, making it easily memorable and suitable for describing various dishonest practices.

1960

Rise of White-Collar Crimes

In the 1960s, with the escalating complexity of financial schemes and an increase in white-collar crimes, the term 'scam' became particularly associated with fraudulent activities in the business and corporate world. With the rise of confidence tricks, Ponzi schemes, and other types of deceiving practices, 'scam' solidified its place as a widely understood term to describe fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting victims.

1990

The Internet Era

With the advent of the internet and the subsequent boom in online transactions and communication, the term 'scam' took on a new prominence. Online scams, such as phishing, advance-fee fraud, and identity theft, became prevalent, exposing individuals to various forms of online deception. The term 'scam' became closely associated with these illicit activities, serving as a warning to internet users to be cautious and vigilant.