A scam is a dishonest scheme or fraudulent practice that often involves trickery, deceit and misrepresentation to swindle someone out of their money, personal information, or other valuables. It's typically carried out by individuals or groups who have malicious intentions and aim to take advantage of others for their own gain. Scams can occur in various forms such as through email phishing, phone calls, text messages, social media, or even in person. They often prey on vulnerable people or those who are unaware of the risks involved. The key is to be aware and cautious when dealing with unsolicited requests for personal information or financial transactions so that you don't become a victim of such fraudulent activities.