Welcome back to our journey into the art of detecting deception. In Part 1, we explored 10 powerful methods, which are the oldest and most well-known. In this final Part 2, we will delve into the ten more modern and cutting-edge techniques, and transforming you into a seasoned truth detective.
These following methods are based on my expertise in this subject and backed by the latest scientific research. They are highly effective in detecting deception. However, keep in mind that no single technique is fool proof. To truly excel in detecting lies, the key lies in employing a combination of these techniques to maximise your chances of uncovering the truth in any given situation.
I will provide context and explanations for each of their strengths and limitations. Note; the effectiveness of these methods may vary depending on the situation, and it is essential to consider the legality and ethics of each.
Seeking guidance from a legal and ethical expert is strongly advised before employing some of these methods in an investigation.
List of Contents
- Hypnosis
- Brain Imaging Techniques
- Eye-Tracking Technology
- Voice Stress Analysis
- Thermal Imaging
- Sharing / Swapping Truths Games
- White Lies
- Sleep Talking
- The Waiting Game
- Random (thinking outside the box)
- Must-Watch TV Shows and YouTube Channels for Detecting Deception!
- Conclusion
Before we start with part 2 of our exploration, stay alert for two tactics: the 'taking the blame' tactic and 'false confessions'. The taking-the-blame tactic occurs when someone falsely admits to something they didn't do. On the other hand, false confessions happen when someone dishonestly confesses to a crime they didn't commit. Different factors, such as pressure, fear, or manipulation, can influence these actions.
Remember to be mindful of these strategies as we further examine their impact on our investigation. If you need a quick refresher, revisit the details in part 1.
1. Hypnosis
Many of us have likely attempted to hypnotise someone at some point in our lives but with little success. However, we are all familiar with the concept of hypnosis, whether from depictions in TV or film. Hypnosis involves inducing a trance-like state that allows individuals to focus their attention inward and become more open to suggestions.
Hypnosis has a long and fascinating history. The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used hypnosis as a form of healing and in religious and spiritual practices. In the 18th century, the Australian physician developed a theory of animal magnetism, which he believed could induce a trance-like state in people. His beliefs eventually led to the development of modern hypnosis.
The legal and ethical implications of hypnosis in a court of law are complex and controversial because hypnosis is not considered a reliable form of evidence in court. While hypnosis can be effective in helping people overcome certain conditions or behaviours, it is not a substitute for polygraph tests or other methods of determining the truth.
The accuracy of hypnosis can be questionable, as people can create false memories or confabulate information while under hypnosis. In other words, one can lie in a hypnotic state because they remain in control of their mind. Additionally, people can pretend to be under hypnosis and lie.
Hypnosis may help a witness recall memories they would otherwise be unable to. However, even in these cases, the court will carefully scrutinise the evidence to ensure its reliability.
Also, highly suggestible people may be more likely to give inaccurate information or respond in a way they think is expected of them. While hypnosis is effective for some purposes, it is generally not considered reliable for determining the truth or detecting deception.
2. Brain Imaging Methods
Peering into the Mind's Veil with Brain Scans and Electric Signatures
Brain imaging techniques, such as 'functional magnetic resonance imaging' (fMRI) and other brain scanning technologies, study imbalances in brain activity and chemical communication. They can aid in comprehending various neurological conditions and diseases and identify changes in brain activity that may indicate deception.
In contrast to polygraphs, which detect changes in the peripheral nervous system, fMRI measures blood flow to the brain regions connected with deception, assessing attention, concentration, and mental processing speed. During an FMRI scan, the participant lies on a movable table that slides into a cylindrical tube, which houses the MRI scanner.
The patient may receive instructions, such as squeezing the right hand or thinking of specific words. A specialist can examine the resulting brain images, which provide a visual map of brain activity.
According to a published fMRI report, "under carefully controlled experimental conditions, the best accuracy achieved is 90%." The accuracy range varies from 95% to 50%, with the best estimate being about 75% sensitivity and 65% specificity. In terms of cost, an fMRI scan can range from £3,500 to £7,500.
Another method is the P300, Described as the new lie detector, which involves attaching electrodes to the person's scalp and measuring the brain's electrical activity while the person performs tasks. A person lying may generate a different response, which can detect deception.
3: Eye-Tracking Technology
Eye-tracking technology has been utilised in research and marketing within the retail industry for several decades, with its popularity increasing. This technology involves using high-resolution cameras and near-infrared light to monitor and record eye movements, providing real-time data for market research.
Unlike the traditional and often costly polygraph test, eye-tracking technology offers a more accessible and affordable alternative. This technology analyses eye movements, pupil dilation, blinks, and fixations that typically indicate stress or deception.
I contacted 'Titan Investigations', a UK-based company that provides this service. They told me, "We bring a machine to your home or office to perform the test. I can ask three questions. The cost is £550-£700 - with a 90% accuracy rate.
Another company, 'Converus' eye-tracking test, has an accuracy rate of 89-91%. They also claim that if you "combine 'EyeDetect' with a Polygraph, it increases to 97-99%". The two combined are the best lie detector test: highest accuracy, so if you're tired of the uncertainty and ready to uncover the truth, eye-detection or polygraph technology is worth considering. Check out the eye-tracking technology in this video.
4. Voice Stress Analysis
The Voice of Truth: Navigating the Complexities of Voice Stress Analysis
CVSA has been described as "an alternative to the polygraph" and "a thousand times easier than the polygraph" as a method for lie detection. It aims to reveal signs of dishonesty by using cutting-edge technology to measure subtle changes in vocal pitch, frequency, and tone to identify potential signs of deception.
According to Bill Endler, an examiner and senior instructor, CVSA truth verification systems do not detect lies but measure the stress caused by those lies. However, a report by the National Institute of Justice, a U.S. government agency, found that voice stress analysis is "no more accurate than a coin toss" in detecting deception.
According to the American Polygraph Association, voice-based lie detectors have shown limited accuracy, and independent scientific research has questioned their reliability.
Despite the controversies surrounding its reliability, there has been a growing interest in CVSA in criminal and insurance fraud investigations, and the police have been using CVSA to solve cold-case crimes long after the suspect had initially passed a Polygraph.
There are many different types of voice analysis systems, but I could not find a company in the UK that offers this service to the public. I found various software that didn't work or are no longer available. I tested many 'lie detector' and 'truth polygraph apps that never (obviously) worked. The only lie detector software I found was 'LiarLiar, an open-source computerised voice stress analysis (CVSA) tool For Linux users. (which I don't have).
According to the American Polygraph Association, voice-based lie detectors have been found to have limited accuracy and have been discredited by independent scientific research, suggesting their unreliable nature and lack of credibility.
In conclusion, while VSA software can provide insights into a person's truthfulness, it's not a conclusive tool to evaluate the truth. Various factors could affect the accuracy and reliability of voice stress analysis, such as stress, anxiety, physical conditions like colds or allergies, and even the individual's cultural background and a person's ability to speak, read, and write a language effectively to perform the test.
5. Thermal Imaging
The Heat is On with Thermal Imaging Lie Detection
Without the awareness of many, individuals passing through airports may be unknowingly subjected to deception detection.
Thermal imaging is a technique used to detect changes in a person's skin temperature, which can indicate emotional arousal. Brain scans, on the other hand, look for patterns of brain activity. Both methods have their strengths and limitations.
Thermal imaging cameras use specialised cameras that detect changes in blood flow caused by adrenaline release, leading to a drop in skin temperature. By measuring these changes, thermal imaging can identify when someone's lying or hiding something.
Thermal imaging is non-intrusive and can analyse several persons simultaneously. The technology has shown promise as a lie detection method and has been used experimentally in some studies. However, a study conducted at an international airport departure hall found that using thermal imaging to detect lies was not as accurate as using human judgment.
The system could detect lies with an overall success rate of 79.2%. However, the success rate depends on how the experiments are performed, among other factors.
Thermal imaging has the potential to become a valuable tool in various fields, including law enforcement, psychology, and medicine.
6. Sharing / Swapping Truth Games
Sharing secrets and playful games can be a powerful way to build trust and intimacy with others. Below are some creative and engaging games to help make stronger connections and encourage truth-telling.
Two Truths and a Lie: In this game, each person takes turns telling three statements about themselves, two of which are true and one of which is false. The other players must guess which is the lie to test someone's honesty and their ability to deceive.
Sharing a Secret: Play a game where you share a secret with the person you suspect of doing wrong, and begin to take turns sharing small, personal secrets. As the game continues, start to share deeper secrets and experiences. By the end of the game, they should feel more comfortable and open up.
Two Truths and a Lie: In this game, each person takes turns telling three statements about themselves, two of which are true and one of which is false. The other players must guess which is the lie to test someone's honesty and their ability to deceive.
The Truth or Consequences Game: Ask the person a question and give them the choice of either telling the truth or facing the consequences, which could be a chore or exercise they don't like doing. If they choose to tell the truth, you get to ask them another question. If the person decides to face the consequence, you get to choose which one. The game continues until the person either tells the truth or can't face any more punishments.
The Guilty Pleasures Game: Take turns sharing your guilty pleasures, things you enjoy but may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit. This game can help break down walls and build connections by showing vulnerability and a willingness to be open and honest.
Creating an environment where the person feels comfortable sharing the truth, by listening actively, asking open-ended questions, and avoiding judgement or criticism.
Although these games encourage sharing secrets, the ability to interpret body language can be a helpful tool in understanding others and determining the truth. It can also aid in building stronger connections and trust between individuals. However, be aware of revealing your weaknesses and vulnerabilities to others. Also, be cautious as the person you confide in may deceive you with falsehoods
7. White Lies
The Art of lying to someone to make them tell you the truth.
Small, harmless lies that o avoid hurting someone's feelings or make a situation more pleasant can be used to get someone to tell the truth in a few ways. If you suspect someone is guilty of something but don't have any concrete evidence, you can use white lies to gauge their reaction (body language) to determine if they're telling the truth.
Example, you may say, "Hey, I was just looking for my wallet and noticed it's missing. Did you happen to see it?" If they deny taking it, you could say, "I could have sworn I left it on the table last night. Maybe I'm just forgetful." While you're talking, observe their body language. Do they seem nervous or avoid eye contact? - this could indicate they're lying. If they remain calm yet concerned to help and ask where you last saw it, it's "likely" they're telling the truth.
The widespread use of CCTV, video doorbell cameras, and hidden spy-cams makes it possible for everything to be captured on film. That's where this trick comes in handy. Present the suspect with a memory stick or SIM card and say, "Do you know what this is?" While doing so, smile confidently and say, "You'll be surprised to see what footage is on this", and "I'm giving you one last chance to come clean". This will project authority and confidence, and may pressure them into confessing. If they seem confident and continue to deny their guilt, but are eager to see what evidence you have, this may give you an insight into their guilt or innocence.
A little white lie never hurt anyone...except maybe Pinocchio.
If someone has stolen something or done wrong, and you know you can't get them to be truthful, tell them, somebody has admitted to it, and watch and observe their body language. A guilty person would be confused or puzzled. Observe the subtle changes in their behaviour.
Inform them you know more than you do to make the suspect feel like they are not in control of the situation and need to cooperate with you to get what they want. For example, you could say, "I know you were present during the crime." Even if you don't have any evidence to support this claim, the suspect may cbe more likely to confess if they think you know more than you do.
Tell them you have someone willing to talk to make them feel like they are not the only one who knows about the crime and that they need to cooperate with you to protect themselves. For example, you could say, "I have someone else who is willing to talk about what happened." Even if you don't, they may be more likely to confess if they think you do.
Mention not you are willing to help them and make the suspect feel you are on their side and want to help them. For example, you could say, "I can help you if you tell me what happened." Even if you can't help them, they may be more likely to confess if they think you can.
The threat of a polygraph test can make a liar nervous, which can reveal clues to their deception. If you're considering a polygraph test, tell the suspect that you'll pay for it if they pass, but they'll have to pay if they fail. They may agree, but then they may be unavailable for "so-called" appointment.
White lies should only be used sparingly. If you use them too often, the suspect will start to distrust you and will be less likely to tell you the truth. Using white lies effectively requires the ability to interpret their body language. However, nothing is 100% conclusive, but it all adds up.
8. Sleep Talking
Unlocking the Subconscious: Using Sleep Talking to Reveal the Truth.
My experience with sleep talking, also known as 'Somniloquy', involved waking up in my children's home on several occasions in the middle of the night to find one of the staff members at the end of my bed talking to me. Although I didn't think much of it, it wasn't until years later that I realised what she was doing. When I look back on it now, I shudder to think about what she may have got me to reveal and how many other children she may have done it to
During the sleep cycle, our conscious mind rests while our unconscious mind remains active. So, while sleep talking, an individual's unconscious mind can communicate with their environment without being inhibited by conscious thought.
Although the content of sleep talking can be incoherent or irrelevant to the present, there are instances when sleep talkers can reveal information they would not typically share while awake. Sleep talking can be a useful technique for those looking to elicit information from others.
For example, if a partner suspects that their significant other is cheating, they could try to engage them in conversation while they are sleeping talking. Another scenario is that you could try to engage the person in conversation when they are half asleep or sleep talking, as they may reveal vital information about a crime or lie they are being accused of or investigating. However, this approach would need to be taken ethically.
It is important to note that changes in allegiances are not always negative or a sign of disloyalty. People may change their allegiances for positive reasons, such as personal growth or a deeper understanding of a particular issue.
However, changes in allegiances can sometimes reveal information about people that was previously unknown. For instance, a person who was involved in illegal activities may change and become law-abiding, resulting in a change of allegiance from a criminal lifestyle to an honest one.
In summary, allegiances can change throughout a person's life due to various factors, including personal growth, shifting priorities, changing beliefs, the external environment, and self-reflection.
Wait until guilt gets the better of them if you keep making them feel guilty, directly or indirectly. Ultimately, time is a powerful force that can reveal the truth, even when it is hidden for a long time.
9. The Waiting Game
Whether it takes a few of seconds, minutes, weeks or decades, time potentially has the power to reveal new perspectives and insights that were previously unavailable.
As people gain new experiences and knowledge, their understanding of the truth may shift. In addition, the passing of time may uncover inconsistencies or contradictions in people's stories or behaviour, which can help to uncover the truth.
Furthermore, time can provide an opportunity for evidence to surface or for witnesses to come forward, which can shed light on what truly happened in a given situation. This can be particularly significant in legal cases or investigations where uncovering the truth can be challenging.
Changes in allegiances can be influenced by a variety of factors. For example, a person who previously led a dishonest lifestyle may transform into an honest one. This transformation process can be complex and multifaceted and may involve various factors, such as a change in values and beliefs, a shift in the external environment, or personal growth and self-reflection.
10. Thinking Outside The Box
Creative Ways to Uncover the Truth in Situations
Lastly, here are some fun ways to test the truthfulness of your friends or partners.
Holy Hijinks Game: In this scenario, someone is given a tempting opportunity to cheat or lie, and their reaction is observed. For example, you could leave a wallet lying around with some money in it and see if the person returns it or keeps the money. This scenario can test someone's moral character and their ability to resist temptation.
The Lie Detector Game: This game requires a little more preparation, but it's a lot of fun. You'll need a deck of cards and a timer. To play, deal out the cards face down to each player. The goal of the game is to get rid of all of your cards by asking your opponents questions and trying to guess if they're lying. If you guess correctly, you get to take their card. The first player to get rid of all of their cards wins!
Prankster's Confession: If the person you're attempting to extract information from is a regular churchgoer who frequently confesses their sins, disguise yourself and your voice, and sneak into the confessional booth. Engage in a playful conversation with the confessor, pretending to be their conscience. Begin with innocent questions such as, 'How are you today? Feeling guilty about anything?' As the confessor responds, skillfully lead the conversation to what you truly desire them to confess or discuss. Or, 'bribe' the priest to ask the questions for you
Dialling Deception: Forget expensive voice-over artists - anyone can create realistic speech online, even mimicking famous people's voices. This dark side of technology emerges with "deepfake AI voice generators." These tools can be misused to create audio scams, tricking people into believing they're talking to a friend or loved one. The scariest part? All it takes is a recording of your voice. This could be a casual conversation you had, a phone call, or even a clip lifted from social media. Then, a 'voice-cloning program' replicates the sound of your voice. Here's one scenario: Jane, a tech-savvy woman, suspects her friend Sally of engaging in a secret affair with her husband, Jack. Mary devises a plan to unveil the truth by employing "deep fake AI voice technology." She chooses to call Jack, assuming the persona of Sally, to coerce him into confessing their deceitful actions. By using this technique "trick", you may get the truth, but you'll need to be cautious of whom you are conversing with in future. Watch the video below to witness AI deepfake in action.
CNN reporter calls his parents using an AI deepfake voice
11. Must-Watch TV Shows and YouTube Channels for Detecting Deception!
If you want to master the techniques of spotting liars, I recommend watching the following, which are entertaining and educating.
The Traitors: The UK, American, and Australian reality TV series follows groups of strangers randomly assigned to be either "The Traitors" or "The Loyalists." The Traitors must lie and deceive the Loyalists in order to win a cash prize.
The reality TV series Big Brother Canada, and the US version, follows a group of contestants who lie and deceive each other in order to stay in the game. Unlike the UK version, in which the public votes to evict contestants based on their popularity,
Explore real-life crimes and gain valuable insights into the art of deception with detective interview videos on YouTube, where criminal professionals narrate and educate you on the physical signs that can indicate when suspects are lying during investigation interviews. Watch, The Body Language Guy. * Dr, Insanity. * Explore With Us. * Red Tree Crime. * Red Tree Crime.
Conclusion
We have reached the end of our crash course journey into the art of detecting deception. I hope this immersive experience has equipped you with a range of modern and cutting-edge techniques, tips and tricks to enhance your ability to uncover the truth.
By employing these techniques and trusting your instincts, you can sharpen your skills in identifying deception and making informed judgements. Remember that detecting deception is a skill that requires practice and persistence. Approach each situation with an open mind, actively listen, and responsibly apply these techniques.
Whether you're a budding detective or someone impacted by lies and deception, we trust that you now possess the necessary tools to navigate through the complexities of deception.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and may your continued search for truth bring clarity and justice.
© 2023 Tony Sky
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