You might have come across a grifter in a social media post, a news discussion, or a battle on the internet. Now it is used frequently, particularly when its about ‘influencers’ or ‘fake experts’ or ‘scams’ or ‘donations’ or ‘someone who is making money from controversy’.
It has a pretty bad connotation. To accuse someone of being a grifter implies that he or she is not entirely straight, is exploiting others, an audience, or a situation for his or her benefit.
This article will examine what a grifter does, how the word is used on the Internet and the difference between words such as scammer and con artist.
So What Does a Grifter Do?
A grifter is someone who tries to get something for himself by convincing people to believe a story, promise or image which is not entirely truthful.
It’s not necessarily a big, complicated scam. It can occasionally be more subtle and less pronounced. An individual may feign knowledge or expertise greater than what they have, promote items with false promises or fabricate a narrative to trick people into wiring funds.
Grift is defined as actions such as:
- Feign talents or know-how they actually lack.
- Make false assurances regarding products or services for sale.
- Pretend to be ill or to need money for something that isn’t actually necessary.
- Increase trust and then exploit it.
- Make a ruckus to attract attention and money.
The overriding concept is the one of self benefit. The person is attempting to obtain monetary, influence, attention or other gain from persons who believe him.
Griffers, scammers and con artists.
These words are similar and are sometimes confused in usage. But there are differences, albeit small.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Grifter | A person who takes advantage of others or a situation repeatedly by deception or manipulation. |
| Scammer | Someone carrying out a scam |
| Con man | Someone who gets people to trust him/her and then tricks the victim into something |
A scammer can operate one particular scam, e.g. fake payment request or investment scheme. In most cases, the con man will work to endear himself to the victim in the first place before exploiting him.
A grifter is wider. The speaker might shift from one scheme, story or audience to another. At times the trick is clearly visible. Other times, it’s just about saying anything that will make money or attention.
What is the meaning of the term “Grifter” on social media?
The definition of “grifter” is used a bit more loosely on social media.
A grifter is a person who appears to care about something just for the likes/followers/sales/donations. It may also refer to a person who changes their mind based upon which opinion has the greatest response.
For instance, an influencer may claim to be an expert, sell an expensive course and promise things that they are not able to back up. Those who think that everything is just about the money can term that person a grifter.
The same applies to this online anger. Because arguments get more clicks and attention, someone can continue to post extreme or controversial opinions. I’m not sure whether it is the case with the person or not, but that is how the word is generally used.
Political Grifter: What Does it Mean?
A person who is, typically, accused of using politics primarily for monetary, influential, attention-seeking or self-serving purposes.
For instance, it can be applied to someone who repeatedly asks for money, sells a product to a political audience, or is willing to drop a stance if it doesn’t receive the support he or she desired.
What is crucial to remember is that political grifter is typically a term of accusation, rather than a term of description. It is the person who uses the word who is saying, “I don’t think this person really believes what they are saying, I think they are doing it for personal gain.”
Well, it depends on the context.
Does the term “Grifter” work as an insult?
Yes, usually.
Grifter implies that the person is being dishonest, manipulative or exploiting others. Usually not friendly/neutral.
Therefore, caution should be taken in employing the term with regard to a real person. When one says that someone is “for sure” a grifter, it is a pretty strong assertion and one that has to be backed up with some facts.
In everyday use, it can be used more loosely and the connotation is still negative.
FAQs
Are a Grifter and a Scammer the same?
They are alike; however, not necessarily identical. A scammer will typically execute a particular scam, while a grifter will resort to the various tricks, stories or schemes over a period of time to obtain money or attention.
Simple Explanation of What is a Grifter?
A grifter is a dishonest person who tries to benefit by misleading or taking advantage of other people.
Grifter Definition: What is the meaning of the word grifter in slang?
Grifter” is a term used in slang, particularly online, to refer to someone that makes statements or propagates claims primarily for financial gain, publicity or influence.
Is it possible for a Grifter to be Legal?
Yes, sometimes. There are times when it is not illegal to cheat or manipulate. Some behaviours can be unethical or misleading, although not illegal. However, scams, fraud and some types of deception can certainly be illegal.
Final Thoughts
A grifter is simply a person who gets something from another through deception, manipulation or exploitation. It can be used to refer to a scammer, fake expert, dishonest seller, or someone who continually exploits an audience for monetary or attention.
Here’s how to understand it: If a person is continuing to obtain a benefit from causing others to believe claims that are not entirely true, then the person may be considered a grifter.