The Moosa Slobodian Network

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