The clever con artist is a good actor who disarms his victims with an affable "nice guy" approach. But behind this friendly exterior is a shrewd judge of people who can isolate potential victims and break down their resistance to his proposals. Each conquest is part of a game in which he must "best" another.

The typical con artist is amoral — but seldom violent, and mobile, with an excellent sense of timing. He sincerely believes his victims deserve their fate. And, if caught, he’ll probably strike again later. Con artists are seldom rehabilitated.

Anyone can be a victim — even a person who considers himself too intelligent or sophisticated to be "conned." During the 1920’s, "Yellow Kid" Weil routinely swindled bankers, explaining, "That’s where the money is."

Many victims share certain characteristics. Often, but not always, they are older, female, and living alone. They are trusting of others — even strangers — and may need or desire supplemental income. Loneliness, willingness to help, and a sense of charity are characteristics a con artist will exploit to gain a victim’s cooperation.

The con artist ultimately will exploit his victim’s assets — including life insurance benefits, pensions or annuities, "nest eggs," home equity, or other tangible property. And he’ll usually obtain the willing cooperation of his victim to complete his scheme.