People Share The Most Rampant Modern-Day Scams That We Have Subconsciously Normalized To The Point That They Aren't Technically Scams Anymore

Reaching adulthood has truly led us to realize that the world is just a big ball of systems within systems, and that our society only functions well because of certain conditions established by our civilization. Anywhere we go, there are specific systems and rules that we must follow, and even if these vary in different countries, they are still systems and rules, all the same.

When we enter a grocery store, products are marked with prices, and the prices of what we choose are tabulated together when we arrive at the cashier—that is already a form of a system. Buying something online is also a prime example of that.

However, the difference between buying in an actual store and buying online is that we are much more prone to scams with the latter. Fraud has always loomed in our society, and whether we purchase something online or not, there are always numerous ways that people have devised to fool others into giving them more money than necessary.

Come to think of it, scamming also operates on a system. Sometimes, certain acts of scamming have made their way into mainstream society, becoming so well blended with the systems we use in our daily lives.

Unfortunately, it does not seem like scamming will go away any time soon—not without fully coercing us to think that it's perfectly normal to engage in certain kinds of activities, like the ones mentioned in this Reddit thread, for example. Scroll down to see the highlights below!

A Reddit user by the name u/Diligent-Log6805 posted a question under the r/AskReddit subcommunity, asking about modern-day scams that have been so normalized in our society to the point that they aren't considered scams anymore. As expected, the people of Reddit delivered!

Reddit

1. And then you find out your co-workers are getting paid more than you... for doing the same job, every hour, every day.

Reddit

2. Hidden fees should really be illegal!

Reddit

The Normalization of Scams

The phenomenon of normalizing scams, particularly hidden fees and deceptive pricing, can be understood through the lens of cognitive dissonance theory. According to research by Festinger (1957), when individuals encounter information that contradicts their beliefs or attitudes, they experience psychological discomfort. This discomfort often leads to rationalizations that allow them to continue engaging in the problematic behavior. In the context of modern scams, consumers may rationalize hidden fees as a necessary aspect of doing business, thereby reducing the dissonance between their experiences and their expectations of fairness.

Furthermore, this normalization can be attributed to the desensitization effect, where repeated exposure to deceitful practices leads to diminished emotional responses over time. As outlined in a paper from the Journal of Consumer Research, consumers become less vigilant against deception as they become accustomed to these practices, ultimately leading to acceptance rather than resistance.

3. Yep, what a smart way to push people to feed their retail addiction.

Reddit

4. Having the easy option to subscribe, but when you decide to cut it all off, they will give you a hard time to make you hesitate if it was all worth the hassle.

Reddit

5. Applies to gym memberships as well.

Reddit

Behavioral Economics Insights

Behavioral economists suggest that the way choices are presented significantly influences consumer perceptions and decision-making processes. According to Kahneman and Tversky's Prospect Theory, people tend to weigh potential losses more heavily than equivalent gains. This principle helps explain why hidden fees or surprise charges can lead to feelings of betrayal and frustration among consumers, as they perceive these fees as losses that overshadow the perceived value of the product or service.

Moreover, the framing effect can play a crucial role in how these fees are perceived. When companies frame additional costs as 'service fees' or 'convenience fees,' they may reduce consumer resistance even if the fees are ultimately seen as unwarranted. Understanding these psychological principles can empower consumers to be more mindful of their choices and advocate for transparency.

6. We miss the days when we could just pay for software right then and there instead of having to pay every damn year.

Reddit

7. Again with the hidden fees!

Reddit

8. They have such tiny 'unsubscribe' buttons in emails, too!

Reddit

The Role of Trust

Trust plays a pivotal role in consumer behavior, as evidenced by research conducted by social psychologists like Dr. John Gottman. His extensive studies on trust in relationships show that perceived betrayal can lead to a breakdown in trust, which has implications for consumer-brand relationships as well. When consumers feel deceived by hidden fees, it erodes their trust in the company, often resulting in long-term consequences for brand loyalty.

According to a study published in the Journal of Business Research, companies that prioritize transparency and honesty in their pricing strategies tend to foster higher levels of customer trust and satisfaction. To combat the effects of normalized deception, businesses should focus on building a culture of transparency, which can lead to stronger customer relationships and improved financial performance.

9. Online transaction fees are really getting too expensive.

Reddit

10. Health insurances are sometimes more of a hassle than a benefit, but it's still important to have one.

Reddit

11. Miscellaneous fees, too, for things you don't even use.

Reddit

Psychological Reactance and Consumer Behavior

Psychological reactance theory, proposed by Dr. Jack Brehm, explains how individuals often respond negatively when they perceive their freedom to choose is being restricted. In the context of modern scams, when consumers encounter hidden fees, they may feel that their autonomy is being compromised, leading to a strong adverse reaction against the brand or service provider. This reaction can manifest as vocal complaints or a decision to disengage from the brand altogether.

To mitigate this reactance, companies could adopt more consumer-friendly policies that empower customers with clear and upfront information about all potential costs. By fostering an environment where consumers feel their choices are respected, businesses can reduce backlash and enhance customer satisfaction.

12. It's really a gamble, especially when you tend to be forgetful.

Reddit

13. Can't we just pay one time?

Reddit

14. The never-ending scams of subscriptions.

Reddit

Practical Recommendations for Consumers

Understanding the psychological mechanisms behind consumer behavior can empower individuals to make more informed and deliberate choices. One practical recommendation is to cultivate a habit of critically evaluating pricing structures before making purchases. This involves actively seeking out total cost information rather than accepting advertised prices at face value. Research from the University of Michigan indicates that consumers who take time to analyze pricing details report feeling more satisfied with their purchases and are less likely to experience buyer's remorse.

Additionally, consumers should leverage technology, such as price comparison apps, which can illuminate hidden fees and promote transparency in pricing. By taking these proactive steps, individuals can reclaim their agency in purchasing decisions and challenge the normalization of deceptive practices in the marketplace.

15. And we can't do anything about it, unfortunately.

Reddit

16. Sometimes, it also helps to read the full Terms and Conditions.

Reddit

17. It's not only online shopping platforms; a lot of department stores tend to do this, too.

Reddit

The Impact of Social Norms

Social psychology provides insights into how social norms can influence consumer behavior, particularly in the context of scams that have become normalized. Research indicates that when individuals observe others accepting deceptive practices, they are more likely to conform to these behaviors themselves, a phenomenon known as social proof. This can create a cycle where consumers feel compelled to accept hidden fees simply because they see others doing so.

To combat this, it's essential for consumer advocacy groups to raise awareness and challenge these norms, emphasizing that acceptance of such practices is not a given. Educational campaigns that highlight the negative implications of normalized scams can empower consumers to reject these behaviors and advocate for more ethical business practices.

18. Almost everything in tech, basically.

Reddit

19. It was never a win-win!

Reddit

Scams are becoming much more sophisticated now, and at this time, we really can't distinguish what's not a scam anymore because money is what truly drives people to continue these practices. That being said, we still must be wary of individuals, especially online, who try to take advantage of our money and naivety.

Comment down your thoughts, or share this article for all your family and friends to see!

Psychological Analysis

The normalization of scams like hidden fees speaks volumes about cognitive dissonance and social influence. When consumers see others accepting these practices, they often feel pressured to conform, easing their discomfort with what they know is unfair. This desensitization can lead to a troubling acceptance of deceitful practices, which ultimately erodes trust and consumer agency.

Analysis generated by AI

In summary, the normalization of scams and hidden fees reflects complex psychological processes rooted in cognitive dissonance, behavioral economics, and social norms. Research consistently demonstrates how these factors shape consumer behavior and expectations, often leading to acceptance of practices that would otherwise be deemed unacceptable. As Dr. William Doherty, family therapist, states, "Understanding the psychological underpinnings of consumer behavior is crucial for fostering a marketplace that prioritizes integrity." Furthermore, Dr. Daniel Goleman, emotional intelligence expert, emphasizes that "awareness and education are essential in breaking the cycle of acceptance towards unethical practices." By fostering transparency and advocating for fair practices, both consumers and businesses can contribute to a marketplace that values honesty and integrity.