Book recommendation background

The panel discussed why Siena recommended “Anatomy of a Con Artist” by Johnathan Walton.

Details
- Siena: Selected the book because she teaches technology and frequently gets questions about staying safe from scams
- Siena: Appreciated that the book was research-backed but also shared personal experiences of the author and victims
- Siena: Highlighted that the book covers not just online scams but also those perpetrated by people you know and trust
Conclusion
- The book offers valuable insights for anyone teaching about technology safety
- Personal stories make the content more relatable than just statistics

Con artist tactics

The panel explored various tactics used by scammers as described in the book.

Details
- Lynn: Shared personal experiences of being targeted while traveling abroad when tired or disoriented
- Ali: Emphasized the quote from the book that people fall for scams when acting on emotion rather than using their head
- Siena: Described how scammers prey on natural human instincts to help others
- Siena: Shared a personal story about almost being scammed when someone asked to borrow her phone
- Ali: Explained how robocall software works by randomly generating numbers and recording voices
Conclusion
- Scammers are becoming more sophisticated as technology advances
- Being in vulnerable emotional states (tired, lost, stressed) increases susceptibility
- Con artists often establish trust before attempting to scam victims

Safety tips

The group shared advice on how to avoid becoming victims of scams.

Details
- Ali: Recommended not answering calls from unknown numbers
- Ali: Advised against using iPhone’s “silence unknown callers” feature in certain situations
- Ali: Suggested telling important contacts to leave messages or call twice if urgent
- Lynn: Mentioned her practice of “block, delete” for suspicious emails
- Ali: Emphasized the importance of understanding device settings
Conclusion
- Trust your contact list and be cautious with unknown numbers
- Learn how to adjust settings on your devices for better security
- Be especially vigilant when in vulnerable situations

Book writing style

The panel discussed the author’s approach to writing about scams.

Details
- Lynn: Praised the targeted writing style and helpful observations
- Macara: Appreciated that it wasn’t sanitized like many books on the subject
- Macara: Noted how the author’s television producer background may have helped him present information in an engaging way
- Lynn: Valued the human experience approach rather than just statistics
- Siena: Highlighted the author’s non-judgmental tone and empathy for victims
Conclusion
- The book’s personal approach makes it more accessible and effective
- The author’s empathy helps reduce shame for victims
- The writing style helps reach a wider audience than academic approaches would

Upcoming shows and events

The panel shared information about upcoming broadcasts and events.

Details
- Ali: Announced Jim Tatti will be on the Ali Moosa show on February 2nd, 2026
- Ali: Mentioned David Schachter will be appearing on either February 3rd or 6th
- Ali: Noted Becky Coles will return on April 20th
- Macara: Confirmed the next Books Panel will be on February 27th, 2026
- Siena: Announced an upcoming Techstravaganza workshop about the Mac Finder
- Lynn: Expressed excitement about future book selections, particularly “The Huntress” by Kate Quinn in June
Conclusion
- The network has a full schedule of upcoming shows planned
- The next Books Panel will discuss “Fan Fiction”, by Brent Spiner

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“Anatomy of a Con Artist”, Thursday, Jan 29, 2026