The Madoff case may be the most spectacularly successful example of an age-old phenomenon known as affinity fraud.

NPR: Successful Madoff Investors Worry About Lawsuits

The state thought to have the most affinity fraud per head is Utah, where 60% of the population are Mormons.

ECONOMIST: The big business of swindling people who trust you

Affinity fraud is a perennial crime because we want to trust people, particularly if they are civic leaders, clergy or just likeable neighbors.

FORBES: Familiar Faces Can Be Flashy Affinity Fraudsters

Of course, the answer is, no one in their right frame of mind would believe that, which is exactly why affinity fraud is so dangerous.

FORBES: Avoid Church and Rotary In Retirement

The third case highlights the true influence of Affinity Fraud.

FORBES: Avoid Church and Rotary In Retirement

Affinity fraud affects many social and ethnic groups.

FORBES: Japanese Investors Take A Hit - Ponzi Scheme or Bad Investment?

When it comes to affinity fraud, definitely not.

FORBES: Familiar Faces Can Be Flashy Affinity Fraudsters

Social media make affinity fraud quicker.

ECONOMIST: The big business of swindling people who trust you