The theories are going deep. - Facebook
facebook.com
This Facebook post is a textbook romance scam opener — and social engineering theory explains exactly why its flattery formula keeps working on millions of victims.
Social EngineeringCialdini's Principles of InfluenceReciprocity NormImpression Management
Theory Briefing
- A generic compliment about 'profile and personality' is a classic rapport-building hook used in social engineering attacks.
- The phrase 'I don't normally write' is a manufactured scarcity cue designed to make the target feel uniquely chosen.
- Flattery-based manipulation exploits our deep need for social validation, a vulnerability well-documented in influence and persuasion research.