The piece begins with a reflection on the history of tricksters in Buenos Aires, illustrating the long-standing relationship between con artists and unsuspecting citizens. The author shares a personal anecdote of an encounter with a young woman on the street who distracts him with flattery and then attempts to sell him a pair of stockings. This encounter serves as a modern example of how old scams continue to be effective in luring in victims through charm and deception.

As the article delves deeper, it highlights the psychological tactics employed by such con artists, namely how they use conversation and flattery to disarm their targets. The cultural context of Buenos Aires is important, as the city has a rich history of street performers and vendors, which blurs the lines between legitimate business and scamming. The repercussions of such tricks are significant, as they can lead to financial loss and a creeping sense of mistrust among citizens.

Ultimately, the author notes that these social interactions reflect larger societal issues, including vulnerability and the exploitation of trust. The piece concludes by emphasizing the need for public awareness and education about such tactics to help individuals protect themselves from becoming victims of trickery in everyday situations.