A pro playbook for cheaters

Psychology of betrayal, Pt 2 [Image](https://) Greetings Everyday Spy, We recently discussed what makes people betray others. Now it’s time to discuss HOW they do it. Let’s go back to the case of the Cambridge Five. 5 British spies who gave secrets to the Soviet Union for over 20 years. Their personalities and beliefs paved the way for betraying their home country. The tool they used to get away with it for over 20 years is a trick called DARVO. DARVO stands for Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender. It’s like the pro playbook for successful cheaters. First, they said they denied doing anything wrong when confronted. They pretended to be loyal. Then, they attacked those who accused them. They tried to flip the script, making anyone who doubted them look like the bad guy. Finally, they played the victim card, so people would feel sorry for them. By using DARVO, the Cambridge Five were able to trick otherwise smart people for a long time. Understanding this trick helps you [see when someone is trying to fool]( and avoid getting in trouble. Think about times when someone broke your trust. Do any of these tactics sound familiar? One way to safeguard against DARVO is knowing the difference between assumptions and assessments. Assuming is believing something without proof. Assessing is looking for the truth using facts. By catching yourself believing things without proof, you can cut to the truth and stop would-be cheaters before they can hurt you. Godspeed, #EverydaySpy P.S. We've all been tricked by DARVO. How could your new awareness of assumptions and assessments help you avoid it? Let us know at info@everydayspy.com. And if you don’t have it yet, OPTHINK teaches you to think like a spy so that[you can see tactics like DARVO from a mile away.]( Andrew Bustamante, Founder of EverydaySpy.com, is a former covert CIA Intelligence officer, decorated US Air Force Combat Veteran, and respected Fortune 500 senior advisor. Learn more from Andrew on his Podcast (The Everyday Espionage Podcast) and by following @EverydaySpy on your favorite social media platform. This email was sent to {EMAIL}. Don't want to receive these emails anymore? [Unsubscribe]( EverydaySpy, 411 Walnut St. #20309, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043