Here are some notable scams and cults in America:

Scams
1. *Bernie Madoff Ponzi Scheme*: Madoff's investment firm defrauded thousands of investors out of approximately $65 billion.
2. *Enron Scandal*: Energy company Enron filed for bankruptcy in 2001 after it was discovered that executives had hidden billions of dollars in debt and inflated the company's financial statements.
3. *Theranos Scandal*: Biotech company Theranos claimed to have developed revolutionary blood-testing technology, but it was later revealed that the company had been exaggerating the capabilities of its technology and putting patients' lives at risk.
4. *Pyramid Schemes*: Various pyramid schemes have been shut down by authorities, including LuLaRoe, a clothing company that was accused of operating a pyramid scheme.
5. *Cryptocurrency Scams*: There have been numerous cryptocurrency scams, including the OneCoin scam, which is estimated to have defrauded investors out of $4 billion.

Cults
1. *Charles Manson and the Manson Family*: Charles Manson and his followers were responsible for a series of brutal murders in the 1960s, including the murder of actress Sharon Tate.
2. *Jonestown and the Peoples Temple*: In 1978, over 900 members of the Peoples Temple, led by Jim Jones, died in a mass murder-suicide in Jonestown, Guyana.
3. *Heaven's Gate*: In 1997, 39 members of the Heaven's Gate cult died in a mass suicide in San Diego, California.
4. *The Branch Davidians*: In 1993, a 51-day standoff between the Branch Davidians and the ATF ended in a fire that killed 76 people, including leader David Koresh.
5. *Scientology*: While not typically considered a traditional cult, Scientology has been accused of cult-like behavior and has faced numerous lawsuits and allegations of abuse.

Red Flags
When dealing with any organization or individual, be cautious of:

- Unrealistic promises or guarantees
- Pressure to invest or commit quickly
- Lack of transparency or accountability
- Isolation from friends and family
- Emotional manipulation or control

If you suspect someone is involved in a scam or cult, report it to the authorities and seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals.

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