Explores stories of hoaxes, scams, and tricksters from throughout history. Breaks down how such fakers operate and offers tips on spotting and avoiding them.

Introduction : a tale as old as time -- Conjurers and con artists : short cons -- Just trust me : long cons -- Step right up! : carnivals and the prince of humbug -- Mysterious minds : spoon benders and psychics -- Who are you? : impostors -- I want to believe : science hoaxes -- Snake oil : deception in medicine -- Gideon's trumpet : deception in war -- Believe nothing : mass media hoaxes -- Conclusion : news you can use.