Top 48 Slang For Cons – Meaning & Usage

“Slang For Cons” is a fascinating topic that delves into the language and terminology used in the world of cons and scams. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or just curious about the shady side of society, this listicle is sure to pique your interest. Let us guide you through the shady underworld of cons with our curated collection of the most common and intriguing slang used by con artists. Get ready to be both entertained and informed as we unveil the secrets behind the language of deception.

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1. Grift

To deceive or swindle someone, often through a clever or elaborate scheme. “Grift” is a slang term used to describe a con or scam.

For example, “He grifted unsuspecting tourists out of their money with a fake charity.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “The art of the grift requires a combination of charm and deception.”
A victim of a grift might warn others, “Be careful of anyone promising quick riches – it could be a grift!”

2. Hustle

To engage in dishonest or fraudulent activities in order to deceive or trick someone out of their money or possessions. “Hustle” is a slang term often used to refer to a con or scam.

For instance, “He hustled people out of their savings with a fake investment opportunity.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “The hustle relies on exploiting people’s trust and vulnerability.”
A victim of a hustle might share their experience, “I fell for the hustle and lost everything – don’t make the same mistake!”

3. Con job

A deceptive or fraudulent scheme or plan designed to trick or deceive someone, often for financial gain. “Con job” is a slang term used to describe a con or scam.

For example, “She pulled off an elaborate con job, convincing people to invest in a non-existent company.”
In a discussion about fraud, someone might say, “The con job involved a network of collaborators and a carefully crafted narrative.”
A victim of a con job might caution others, “Always do your due diligence and research before getting involved in any investment opportunity.”

4. Scheme

A plan or strategy, often deceptive or fraudulent in nature, designed to achieve a specific goal or outcome. “Scheme” is a slang term that can refer to a con or scam.

For instance, “He devised a scheme to trick people into revealing their personal information.”
In a conversation about fraud, someone might say, “The scheme relied on exploiting loopholes in the system.”
A victim of a scheme might share their story, “I was lured into the scheme with promises of easy money, only to be left with nothing.”

5. Ruse

A deceptive or misleading tactic or strategy used to trick or deceive someone. “Ruse” is a slang term often used to describe a con or scam.

For example, “They used a ruse to gain access to people’s bank accounts and steal their money.”
In a discussion about deception, someone might say, “The ruse involved creating a sense of urgency and exploiting people’s fear.”
A victim of a ruse might warn others, “Don’t fall for their clever ruse – always be skeptical and verify before taking any action.”

6. Flimflam

To flimflam someone means to deceive or trick them, often in order to obtain money or goods dishonestly. It can also refer to a fraudulent scheme or scam.

For example, “He flimflammed me out of my life savings with a fake investment opportunity.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “Watch out for those flimflam artists looking to take advantage of unsuspecting victims.”
A person warning others about a potential scam might say, “Don’t fall for their flimflam tactics; it’s all a con.”

7. Bamboozle

To bamboozle someone means to deceive or confuse them, often by trickery or cleverness. It can also imply a sense of being outsmarted or fooled.

For instance, “He bamboozled the audience with his magic tricks.”
In a discussion about a clever con artist, someone might say, “He bamboozled everyone with his elaborate scheme.”
A person describing a confusing situation might say, “I was completely bamboozled by the complex instructions.”

8. Gyp

To gyp someone means to cheat or swindle them, often by not delivering what was promised or by using dishonest tactics to gain an advantage.

For example, “He gyped me out of my money by selling me a faulty product.”
In a conversation about being deceived, someone might say, “I can’t believe he gyped me like that; I thought I could trust him.”
A person warning others about a potential scam might say, “Be careful not to get gyped by those fake online sellers.”

9. Sting

To sting someone means to con or swindle them, often by setting up an elaborate plan or trap to catch the victim off guard.

For instance, “He stung me by selling me counterfeit tickets to the concert.”
In a discussion about a successful con, someone might say, “The sting operation caught several criminals in the act.”
A person cautioning others about a potential scam might say, “Don’t fall for their sting; they’re just trying to trick you.”

10. Swindle

To swindle someone means to deceive or cheat them, often by using dishonest or fraudulent methods to obtain money or goods.

For example, “He swindled me out of my inheritance with a fake investment scheme.”
In a conversation about being conned, someone might say, “I can’t believe I was swindled like that; I should have been more cautious.”
A person warning others about a potential scam might say, “Watch out for those swindlers trying to take advantage of unsuspecting victims.”

11. Fraud

Fraud refers to intentional deception or misrepresentation for financial gain. It is a broad term that encompasses various illegal activities such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and investment scams.

For example, a person might say, “He committed fraud by using someone else’s credit card.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might warn, “Beware of fraudulent emails asking for your personal information.”
A news article might report, “The company was fined for engaging in fraudulent business practices.”

12. Deception

Deception involves intentionally misleading or tricking someone into believing something false. It can be used for personal gain or to manipulate others.

For instance, a person might say, “His deception was revealed when the truth came out.”
In a discussion about magic tricks, someone might say, “The magician’s deception left the audience in awe.”
A character in a novel might employ deception to achieve their goals.

13. Scam

A scam is a fraudulent scheme or operation designed to deceive and trick people out of their money or valuables. Scams can take many forms, such as fake lotteries, pyramid schemes, or online phishing scams.

For example, a person might say, “I fell for an online scam and lost all my savings.”
In a discussion about scam prevention, someone might advise, “Always be cautious of unsolicited phone calls asking for personal information.”
A news report might warn, “A new scam is targeting elderly individuals by pretending to be a relative in need of financial assistance.”

14. Con game

A con game, short for confidence game, is a scam or fraudulent scheme in which the perpetrator gains the trust of the victim and manipulates them into giving up money or valuables. It often involves psychological manipulation and persuasion.

For instance, a person might say, “He was a master of the con game, convincing people to invest in his fake business.”
In a discussion about famous con artists, someone might mention, “The notorious con man was able to swindle millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims.”
A movie plot might revolve around a group of con artists pulling off an elaborate con game.

15. Cheat

To cheat means to act dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage or deceive someone. It can refer to cheating in a game, cheating on a test, or cheating in a relationship.

For example, a person might say, “He cheated by using cheat codes in the video game.”
In a discussion about academic integrity, someone might argue, “Cheating undermines the value of education.”
A character in a TV show might be caught cheating on their partner, leading to dramatic consequences.

16. Fiddle

To fiddle means to deceive or trick someone in order to gain an advantage or profit. It is often used in the context of financial scams or fraudulent activities.

For example, “He fiddled with the company’s accounting records to embezzle money.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Watch out for those who try to fiddle you out of your hard-earned cash.”
Another usage could be, “The con artist used various fiddles to swindle unsuspecting victims.”

17. Hoax

A hoax is a deliberate attempt to deceive or trick someone, often for humorous or malicious purposes. It involves creating a false story or spreading false information with the intention of misleading others.

For instance, “The news article claiming aliens had landed was a complete hoax.”
During April Fools’ Day, people often play hoaxes on their friends and family.
A person might warn others by saying, “Don’t fall for that email scam. It’s a total hoax.”

18. Ploy

A ploy is a clever or cunning strategy used to deceive or manipulate someone. It is a tactic employed to achieve a specific goal or advantage.

For example, “He used the sympathy ploy to get his colleagues to do his work for him.”
In a discussion about negotiation techniques, someone might mention, “Using a diversionary ploy can help you gain the upper hand.”
Another usage could be, “The con artist employed various ploys to gain the trust of his victims.”

19. Scoundrel

A scoundrel is a dishonest or unscrupulous person who is involved in deceptive or criminal activities. It is often used to describe someone who is morally corrupt or lacking in integrity.

For instance, “He is a scoundrel who preys on the vulnerable for his personal gain.”
In a discussion about historical figures, someone might say, “Blackbeard was known as a notorious scoundrel.”
Another usage could be, “The scam artist was exposed as a scoundrel after defrauding numerous individuals.”

20. Charlatan

A charlatan is a person who falsely claims to have special skills, knowledge, or abilities in order to deceive others. They often use their supposed expertise to gain trust and exploit people for personal gain.

For example, “The self-proclaimed psychic turned out to be a charlatan.”
In a discussion about alternative medicine, someone might warn, “Beware of charlatans who make false claims about miracle cures.”
Another usage could be, “The con artist posed as a financial advisor but was eventually exposed as a charlatan.”

21. Grifter

A grifter is a person who engages in fraudulent schemes or scams to deceive and swindle others out of their money or possessions. The term is often used to describe someone who is skilled at manipulating and tricking people for personal gain.

For example, “The grifter convinced the elderly couple to give him their life savings by promising them a high return on investment.”
In a discussion about famous con artists, one might mention, “Frank Abagnale is known as one of the most notorious grifters in history.”
A person warning others about scams might say, “Be careful of online grifters who try to steal your personal information.”

22. Con artist

A con artist is an individual who uses deception and persuasion tactics to gain the trust of others in order to exploit them financially or otherwise. They often rely on confidence tricks and manipulative techniques to convince their victims to believe in their false stories or promises.

For instance, “The con artist convinced people to invest in a fake business venture by showing them forged documents and testimonials.”
In a discussion about famous scams, one might mention, “Bernie Madoff is considered one of the most notorious con artists of all time.”
A person sharing their personal experience with a con artist might say, “I was conned by a smooth-talking con artist who posed as a wealthy investor.”

23. Hustler

A hustler is a person who uses various tactics and strategies to deceive and manipulate others, often for personal gain or advantage. The term can refer to someone who engages in illegal activities or someone who is simply street-smart and resourceful.

For example, “The hustler convinced people to buy counterfeit designer goods by offering them at a discounted price.”
In a discussion about street scams, one might mention, “Hustlers often use distraction techniques to pickpocket unsuspecting victims.”
A person warning others about street hustlers might say, “Watch out for the hustlers who approach you with sob stories and ask for money.”

24. Scammer

A scammer is an individual who uses deceptive tactics and schemes to trick others into giving them money or personal information. Scammers often operate online, posing as legitimate businesses or individuals to gain their victims’ trust before exploiting them.

For instance, “The scammer sent phishing emails pretending to be a bank, asking recipients to provide their login credentials.”
In a discussion about online scams, one might mention, “Scammers often target vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or those in financial distress.”
A person sharing their experience with a scammer might say, “I fell victim to a scammer who promised me a job opportunity but ended up stealing my identity.”

25. Swindler

A swindler is a person who uses dishonest and fraudulent tactics to deceive and cheat others, often out of their money or valuables. They may employ various strategies, such as false promises, manipulation, or misrepresentation, to gain the trust of their victims before exploiting them.

For example, “The swindler convinced people to invest in a fake real estate project by showing them fabricated documents and testimonials.”
In a discussion about financial fraud, one might mention, “Swindlers often target vulnerable individuals who are desperate for quick financial gains.”
A person warning others about swindlers might say, “Be cautious of smooth-talking swindlers who promise unrealistic returns on investment.”

26. Trickster

This term refers to someone who uses deception or cunning to trick or deceive others. A trickster is often skilled at manipulating situations or people to their advantage.

For example, a person might say, “Watch out for that trickster, he’s always trying to pull a fast one.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might warn, “Don’t fall for the tricks of a professional trickster.”
Another might describe a clever con artist as, “He’s a master trickster, able to convince anyone of anything.”

27. Fraudster

A fraudster is someone who engages in fraudulent activities or schemes to deceive others and obtain money or goods through dishonest means. They often use deceit, lies, or false representation to gain the trust of their victims.

For instance, a person might say, “Beware of that fraudster, he’s known for running elaborate scams.”
In a discussion about online fraud, someone might warn, “Don’t share your personal information with any potential fraudsters.”
Another might recount a personal experience, “I was a victim of a fraudster who convinced me to invest in a fake business opportunity.”

28. Snake oil salesman

This term refers to someone who sells fraudulent or ineffective products or services, often using deceptive or exaggerated claims. The term originated from the practice of selling “snake oil,” a supposed cure-all medicine that was actually ineffective.

For example, a person might say, “Don’t trust that snake oil salesman, his products are all scams.”
In a discussion about false advertising, someone might criticize, “Those snake oil salesmen are preying on vulnerable consumers.”
Another might warn, “Be skeptical of any product that claims to cure everything, it’s likely just a snake oil salesman at work.”

29. Con man

A con man, short for “confidence man,” is someone who gains the trust or confidence of others in order to deceive or defraud them. They often manipulate their victims using charm, persuasion, and false promises.

For instance, a person might say, “He’s a notorious con man, able to convince anyone of anything.”
In a discussion about famous scams, someone might mention, “The con man behind the Ponzi scheme fooled countless investors.”
Another might share a cautionary tale, “I was conned by a smooth-talking con man who promised me a great deal.”

30. Sharpie

A sharpie is someone who engages in dishonest or fraudulent practices, often in the context of gambling or sports. They use various tactics to gain an unfair advantage or deceive others for personal gain.

For example, a person might say, “He’s a sharpie, always finding ways to cheat at cards.”
In a discussion about match-fixing, someone might accuse, “Those sharpies are ruining the integrity of the game.”
Another might share a story, “I once encountered a sharpie who tried to manipulate the outcome of a sports event.”

31. Shyster

A shyster is a derogatory term for a lawyer who uses unethical or questionable tactics to win cases or deceive clients. The term implies dishonesty and lack of integrity.

For example, “Watch out for that shyster attorney, he’s known for taking advantage of his clients.”
In a discussion about legal ethics, someone might say, “Shyster lawyers give the entire profession a bad name.”
A person recounting a negative experience with a lawyer might say, “I hired a shyster who promised me the world but delivered nothing.”

32. Flimflam artist

A flimflam artist is someone who uses deception or trickery to defraud or swindle others. They often create elaborate schemes or scams to manipulate people out of their money or possessions.

For instance, “Beware of that flimflam artist selling fake Rolex watches on the street.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might say, “I fell victim to a flimflam artist who convinced me to send money for a nonexistent product.”
A person warning others about a scammer might say, “Don’t be fooled by that flimflam artist, he’s just trying to take your money.”

33. Huckster

A huckster is someone who uses aggressive or deceptive tactics to sell or promote something. They often employ persuasive techniques or exaggerated claims to convince people to buy their products or services.

For example, “That huckster convinced me to buy a product I didn’t need with his smooth-talking.”
In a discussion about advertising, someone might say, “Hucksters are masters at manipulating consumer behavior.”
A person warning others about a dishonest salesperson might say, “Don’t trust that huckster, he’ll say anything to make a sale.”

34. Bamboozler

A bamboozler is someone who deceives or tricks others, often for personal gain or amusement. They use cunning or clever tactics to manipulate people’s perceptions or actions.

For instance, “That bamboozler convinced me to give him all my money with his elaborate magic trick.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Bamboozlers prey on people’s trust and vulnerability.”
A person recounting a story of being deceived might say, “I can’t believe I fell for that bamboozler’s lies.”

35. Deceiver

A deceiver is someone who intentionally misleads or deceives others. They often use lies or false information to manipulate people’s beliefs or actions.

For example, “That deceiver convinced everyone he was a millionaire, but it turned out to be a lie.”
In a discussion about trust, someone might say, “Deceivers erode the foundation of honest relationships.”
A person warning others about a dishonest individual might say, “Don’t trust that deceiver, he’ll say anything to get what he wants.”

36. Slickster

This term refers to someone who is skilled at deceiving or manipulating others, often for personal gain. A slickster is someone who can easily convince others and make things go their way.

For example, in a con artist movie, a character might say, “Watch out for that slickster, he can talk his way out of anything.”
In a discussion about fraudsters, someone might warn, “Don’t fall for the tricks of a slickster.”
A person might describe a charming scammer as, “He’s a real slickster, always finding a way to get what he wants.”

37. Artful dodger

This term refers to someone who is skilled at avoiding trouble or evading capture, especially in the context of illegal activities. An artful dodger is someone who can escape the consequences of their actions through cunning and agility.

For instance, in a conversation about pickpockets, someone might mention, “The artful dodger can steal your wallet without you even noticing.”
In a discussion about con artists, a person might say, “He’s like an artful dodger, always finding a way to slip away from the law.”
A character in a crime novel might be described as, “The artful dodger of the group, he can get in and out of any situation without a trace.”

38. Shark

This term refers to someone who is highly skilled and experienced in the art of deception and fraud. A shark is someone who preys on others’ vulnerability or naivety to achieve their own goals.

For example, in a discussion about scams, someone might say, “He’s a real shark, always looking for the next opportunity to make money.”
In a conversation about poker players, a person might mention, “Beware of the shark at the table, he knows how to read every move.”
A character in a heist movie might be described as, “The mastermind behind the operation, he’s a true shark in the world of cons.”

39. Sharpster

This term refers to someone who is clever and quick-witted when it comes to deceiving others. A sharpster is someone who uses their intelligence and wit to manipulate situations and people to their advantage.

For instance, in a conversation about confidence tricksters, someone might mention, “He’s a real sharpster, always coming up with new schemes to swindle people.”
In a discussion about con games, a person might say, “The sharpster knows how to exploit people’s weaknesses and gain their trust.”
A character in a crime novel might be described as, “The sharpster of the group, he can think on his feet and outsmart anyone in a con.”

40. Mountebank

This term refers to someone who deceives others by pretending to possess skills, knowledge, or abilities that they do not actually have. A mountebank is someone who uses false pretenses to gain the trust and confidence of others for personal gain.

For example, in a conversation about fake psychics, someone might say, “That mountebank is just trying to scam people out of their money.”
In a discussion about fraudsters, a person might mention, “The mountebank uses elaborate tricks to convince people of their expertise.”
A character in a historical drama might be described as, “The mountebank of the court, he fooled everyone with his fake cures and remedies.”

41. Ployer

A ployer is someone who uses tricks or deceptive tactics to deceive or manipulate others. The term is often used to describe someone who engages in cons or scams.

For example, “Watch out for that ployer, he’s always trying to swindle people out of their money.”
A person discussing a recent scam might say, “I can’t believe I fell for that ployer’s scheme.”
Another might warn, “Be wary of anyone who seems too good to be true, they could be a ployer.”

42. Double-dealer

A double-dealer is someone who deceives or betrays others by pretending to be loyal or trustworthy while secretly working against them. The term is often used to describe someone involved in cons or frauds.

For instance, “You can’t trust that double-dealer, he’ll stab you in the back as soon as it benefits him.”
A person discussing a business associate might say, “I never suspected he was a double-dealer until he stole my clients.”
Another might caution, “Beware of double-dealers who pretend to be your friend but are only looking out for themselves.”

43. Imposter

An imposter is someone who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others. The term is often used to describe someone involved in cons or scams.

For example, “The imposter posed as a wealthy investor and convinced people to give him their money.”
A person discussing a recent case of identity theft might say, “The imposter stole my personal information and used it to open credit cards in my name.”
Another might warn, “Always be cautious of imposter scams, where someone pretends to be a government official or a representative from a company.”

44. Shell game

The shell game is a con game where a person hides an object, typically a small ball or pea, under one of three cups or shells, and then shuffles them around. The goal is to deceive others into guessing which cup or shell the object is under.

For instance, “The shell game is a classic street hustle where the con artist tricks people into betting on the wrong cup.”
A person discussing a carnival scam might say, “I got tricked by the shell game and lost all my money.”
Another might caution, “Don’t fall for the shell game, it’s designed to make you think you can win but you’ll always lose.”

45. Fast one

“Pulling a fast one” refers to deceiving or tricking someone, often in a clever or unexpected way. The term is often used to describe cons or scams.

For example, “He tried to pull a fast one by selling counterfeit tickets to the concert.”
A person discussing a recent scam might say, “They pulled a fast one by promising a high return on investment but disappearing with everyone’s money.”
Another might warn, “Be careful not to fall for someone pulling a fast one, always do your research and trust your instincts.”

46. Ponzi scheme

A Ponzi scheme is a fraudulent investment operation where the operator pays returns to its investors from new capital paid to the operators by new investors, rather than from profit earned through legitimate sources. The scheme is named after Charles Ponzi, an Italian immigrant to the United States who became infamous for running such a scheme in the early 20th century.

For example, “Many people lost their life savings in the Ponzi scheme run by Bernie Madoff.”
A financial expert might warn, “Be cautious of investment opportunities that promise unusually high returns, as they could be a Ponzi scheme.”
In a discussion about financial fraud, someone might bring up, “The Ponzi scheme is one of the most well-known types of investment scams.”

47. Sharp practice

Sharp practice refers to unethical or dishonest behavior, especially in business or professional settings. The term is often used to describe actions or tactics that are deceptive or manipulative, intended to gain an unfair advantage or deceive others.

For instance, “The company engaged in sharp practice by deliberately misrepresenting their product’s capabilities.”
In a discussion about business ethics, someone might say, “We should strive to avoid sharp practice and instead focus on building trust with our customers.”
A journalist investigating corporate misconduct might uncover evidence of sharp practice and write an exposé on the subject.

48. Hoodwink

To hoodwink someone means to deceive or trick them, often by presenting false information or by using clever tactics to manipulate their perception. The term implies that the person being hoodwinked is unaware of the deception.

For example, “The con artist managed to hoodwink the elderly couple into giving him their life savings.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might warn, “Don’t let yourself be hoodwinked by offers that seem too good to be true.”
A person recounting a personal experience might say, “I was hoodwinked by a smooth-talking salesperson who convinced me to buy a worthless product.”