The terms scam and ripoff are often used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same. Both involve getting a bad deal—but only one is designed to deceive.
Scam
Definition: A scam is a calculated, deceptive scheme intended to trick you out of your money, personal data, or valuables.
Core Feature: 
Fraudulent intent. The perpetrator knows they’re lying—and does it deliberately.
Examples:
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- Phishing emails claiming to be your bank.
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- A fake charity asking for donations.
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- Someone selling tickets to a concert that doesn’t exist.
Ripoff
Definition: A ripoff happens when someone wildly overcharges or delivers poor value—without necessarily lying or breaking the law.
Core Feature: 
Unfairness or exploitation. It may be legal, but it’s unethical and outrageous.
Examples:
- A tourist shop charging $10 for a bottle of water.
- A repair shop billing $500 for a 10-minute fix.
- A product that falls apart the day after you buy it.
Bottom Line:
| Term | Core Issue | Legal? |
|---|---|---|
| Scam | Intentional fraud |  Often illegal |
| Ripoff | Unfair pricing or poor value |  Legal, but unethical |
A scam is a con. A ripoff is just a terrible deal.
