Curse Removal Scams: How They Work

‘Someone has put a curse on you, but I can remove it.’ It's one of the oldest scams in the book — and it still works because it targets people at their most vulnerable.

Curse Removal Scams illustration

How the Scam Unfolds

  1. A cheap or free reading — often unsolicited — reveals 'dark energy' or a curse.
  2. The scammer links it to your pain: a breakup, illness or money trouble.
  3. They offer to remove it for a fee: candles, rituals, 'cleansing'.
  4. Soon the curse is 'stronger than expected' and more money is needed.
  5. Payments escalate, often through untraceable methods.

Why It Works

These scams target people after a loss or breakup, when hope is high and judgment is stretched. Scammers use urgency, fear and fake personalization to keep victims paying. It isn't about being gullible — it's about being in pain.

Love Spells and ‘Returning an Ex’

The same pattern appears as love spells promising to bring back an ex within days. No reader can control another person's free will, and no legitimate platform permits these sales.

Protect Yourself

  • Only use platforms with reviews and in-app payment.
  • Never pay to remove a curse, hex or 'negative energy'.
  • Be wary of anyone who contacts you first.
  • Talk to a friend before spending money on a 'spiritual fix'.

If You've Been Targeted

Stop paying, keep records, report to the platform and your bank, and file a report with the FTC. You're not alone — psychic fraud is widely reported. Read the full list of tarot scam red flags.

Phrases Scammers Use

  • “I see a dark cloud over you.”
  • “Someone close to you is jealous and has done work against you.”
  • “This is very rare — I've only seen it a few times.”
  • “If we don't act now, it will get worse.”
  • “Don't tell anyone, or the work won't succeed.”

What Reputable Platforms Do

Established tarot platforms prohibit selling spells, curse removal and off-platform payments, and they let you report readers. That's one of the main reasons we recommend booking through them, even for very cheap readings.

Recovering After a Scam

Feeling embarrassed is common — and undeserved. Scammers are skilled at targeting vulnerable moments. Report what happened, contact your bank, and consider talking to someone you trust. If you'd still like tarot in your life, start fresh with a reputable reader and clear boundaries.

Keep Reading

FAQ

Are curses real?

Tarot can't diagnose curses, and paying someone to remove one is a well-documented scam.

Can I get my money back from a psychic scam?

Sometimes through your bank or card issuer; report it as quickly as possible.

Want a personal answer?

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