Protection and Dangers Archives - Page 5 of 6

Can Ghost Hunters Avoid Demons?

scared person Are you afraid of demons?

I am. That’s why, when I’m ghost hunting, I watch for warning signs.

You should, too.

Thankfully, demons are a rare danger at haunted sites.

Read this article to learn what demons are and where you can ghost hunt with the most safety.

What is a demon?

The Oxford Dictionary says the word “demon” comes from the Greek term for evil spirit. Since 1706, that’s what it’s meant in English, too: Evil spirit.

Any malicious entity or spirit could be called a demon. That could be an alien or a faerie or something we can’t yet define. My dictionary also says those spirits could be the souls of deceased persons.

In recent and popular use, the word “demon” has been used in a religious context, particularly the Christian beliefs indicating the (singular) Devil or Satan, or — more rarely — one of the evil entities under his command.

A ghost is not a demon.

No matter what your theology, ghosts and demons are two different things.

So, are you worried about ghosts and spirits? Or, are you anxious about a dangerous entity described in the New Testament?

If you’re afraid of unhappy, angry and aggressive ghosts — that is, spirits of the deceased — don’t get involved in paranormal research.

Many ghosts seem unhappy. Some of them vent their anger in aggressive ways.

There’s no way to be involved in ghost hunting without encountering some threatening spirits of the dead.

Sooner or later — usually sooner — you’ll see (or hear, or feel) something that makes you uneasy.

Ghost hunting in cemeteries can be safe-ish.

If you want to learn ghost hunting in a setting that’s relatively free of any dangers from demons, start with “hallowed ground.”

That is, develop your skills in haunted cemeteries, preferably church-related cemeteries.

In most cases, they’ve been blessed to keep Satan (or the Devil) out.

But, this is important: Cemeteries (and churches) can become unhallowed and unsanctified.

In other words, don’t drop your guard.

That church or burial yard may not be as spiritually protected as you think.

Learn more about demons

If you want to understand more about demons, a Long Island Paranormal Investigators’ article, Demonology 101, covers the topic in depth.

I also recommend a 2007 Coast-to-Coast AM interview with John Zaffis and the late Father Andrew Calder, Demonic Forces & the Paranormal.

Over many years, both John and Father Andrew have taught me a lot about the dangers of ghost hunting. On the topic of demons, their advice was always 100% reliable.

But even at a current and well-maintained cemetery, you aren’t entirely safe. For example, I’ve mentioned severe demon-like problems when ghost hunting at Vale End Cemetery in Wilton, NH.

Those were extremely rare experiences.

What we encountered wasn’t a ghost. I’m not certain it was a demon, either.

Either way, it was unique among hundreds (perhaps thousands) of sites I’ve investigated.

Other dangers of ghost hunting

Ghost hunting can be a risky or even dangerous hobby.

Often, you have more to fear from the living than from the dead (or other entities), whether you’re ghost hunting in a cemetery or any other “haunted” location.

If you focus on relatively benign haunted cemeteries, especially if they’re in hallowed grounds, you’re as safe as possible from demons (no matter how you define them).

That doesn’t mean you’re 100% safe. No one can guarantee that, no matter where you are or who you’re with.

If you’re frightened by any aspect of ghost hunting or paranormal research, don’t get involved in this field.

Sooner or later — often when you least expect it — you’re going to encounter something truly terrifying.

It might be a ghost.
It might be something malicious.
It might just be some guy you trusted, but he’s a sexual predator.

Are you fascinated by ghosts and haunted places, and willing to take risks?

Ghost investigations can be a thrilling.

But if you’re uneasy about ghost hunting, even before you’ve explored it… stop now.

Find some other hobby or interest. Ghost hunting isn’t safe, and it’s probably not for you.

Possessed? Need help?

“I am possessed. Please help me.” “My sister needs an exorcism.” “I think my house has a demon.”

That’s what’s in my email most days.

Unfortunately, replying to those emails takes time away from my real research: Documenting and predicting phenomena that could explain ghosts, hauntings, and other possibly related anomalies.

(My work does not include demons, alien abductions, or Bigfoot research. I doubt that it ever will.)

So, I cannot answer emails or comments about dark, malicious, or demonic entities and possessions.

Here’s what you need to know…

Ghost Hunter's Survival Guide by Michelle Belanger — Excellent personal advice and academic research about spiritual dangers in ghost hunting.

Demonic possessions are very serious. The good news is, they’re also rare.

Other things can look like demons or possessions. In the vast majority of cases, the person is not possessed, is not tormented by demonic entities, and the best help does not involve an exorcist.

Devil possessions and demonic possessions — two different things — have been studied for centuries from a variety of theological and practical viewpoints.

Generally, no one wakes up one morning and is suddenly possessed. It doesn’t happen. There were always many warning signs of increasing intensity, and they built up over a period of time.

What you can do

If someone does transform overnight, suspect a medical issue. Call the person’s doctor.

If the person seems to be transforming gradually, and turning from happy and normal to dark, brooding or even malicious, you’ll still want to alert the family physician. The cause might be something physical, such as a reaction to food or a medication.

However, I also recommend contacting a professional in the spiritual/religious community. It doesn’t have to be someone at a church that you (or the victim) go to… or even believe in. It simply needs to be a traditional and/or mainstream church: When you might be dealing with a malicious spirit, you need someone with spiritual experience.

Was a Ouija board involved?

In most cases, the problem started with a Ouija board — or some other divinatory technique — in the hands of someone who didn’t understand the risks. (I’ve already weighed in on that subject, in other articles.)

Whatever you do, do not burn the Ouija board… or anything else that might be possessed.

Consult a demonologist about how to dispose of it, safely.

Are you in danger?

Are you afraid for your personal safety, or the victim’s? If this issue has been building for awhile, but you thought it’d go away on its own, contact a demonologist, a priest or a minister right away.

Don’t keep searching the Internet for answers. If anyone is in danger, contact someone in your community today. If they don’t have enough expertise to deal with the issue, see my Recommended Resources list, below.

**If your house may have a demonic entity**

If something odd is going on and you feel in great danger, get out of that house.

Never stay in a situation where you feel in danger. Even if it turns out to be something normal — such as EMF issues from unshielded electrical wiring — your safety must come first.

Possessions are rare

Remember, the answer to strange behavior — especially sudden and dramatic personality changes — is rarely anything demonic.

If you aren’t sure, contact someone who can determine your level of danger.

Recommended resources

If you need help, find out more at: If You’re Frightened and Need Help.

When you contact a demonologist, expect them to eliminate normal (if odd) issues, first. This may include consulting a medical doctor or other professional.

Don’t feel insulted. It’s nothing personal.

In fact, those early steps are routine. Just like a “haunted” stairway might simply be out of alignment, some “demonic” activity can be triggered by drug interactions, a food sensitivity, etc.

The demonologist isn’t trivializing what’s going on. He or she is simply ruling out the odd (but normal) things that can look remarkably like something demonic.

I’m sure there are other excellent professionals in this field, but I only recommend people I know well and have worked with in real life.

My best recommendations are listed, above. Dark, malicious, and demonic possessions are outside my expertise. If you think you’re possessed, contact experts in that field. Stop looking for answers, online. Get help now.

Poltergeists – What They Are, and Famous Stories

Poltergeists cause unexplained noises, and move objects with unseen hands.

At many hauntings, those mischievous (and sometimes angry) spirits throw things… sometimes vigorously.

On TV, one of the most famous examples was in the Ghost Adventures episode filmed at the Goldfield Hotel.

Though I can’t clearly see enough to claim it’s a genuine event, Zak Bagans continues to refer to it as one of the scariest moments in the show’s history.

If he had reason to suspect it was a hoax, I doubt that he’d keep revisiting this topic. He’d probably hope people forgot it.

So, I take this seriously. (Note: Often, Zak – or the show’s producers – and I have very different views about ghost hunting and safety issues.)

Ghost Adventures Flying Brick 1080p HD

Goldfield, Nevada, Goldfield Inn evidence of paranormal. Brick flying across room from unknown force captured in 2008 by Zak B. and Nick G. during their firs…

According to Wikipedia,

In folklore and parapsychology, a Poltergeist (German for ‘noisy ghost’ or ‘noisy spirit’) is a type of ghost or other supernatural entity which is responsible for physical disturbances, such as loud noises and objects being moved or destroyed. They are purportedly capable of pinching, biting, hitting, and tripping people. Most accounts of poltergeists describe the movement or levitation of objects such as furniture and cutlery, or noises such as knocking on doors.

Professional opinions

Among paranormal researchers, opinions vary widely. Some insist that a ghost – and only a ghost – causes the activity.

Others believe a living person triggers it, and is sometimes the target of particularly vicious physical attacks.

And some dismiss poltergeists entirely. They point to hoaxes, and vibrations from sources such as a passing train or heavy truck.

No simple, single answer that applies to all cases.

In my opinion, people who casually shrug off all poltergeists have never witnessed much poltergeist activity.

I’ve seen enough to believe it’s real, and sometimes very dangerous.

When poltergeist activity is infrequent or not especially dangerous, a bowl of salt seems to reduce or eliminate the problem. Place the salt where most of the activity occurs.

Of course, if the activity puts anyone at risk – especially physically – it’s important to get professional help quickly. I refer people to spiritual advisors such as priests and ministers.

However, avoid leaping to idea that the activity is demonic. That’s very rarely the case.

Meanwhile, some scientists are aggressively studying psychokinesis (PK), which may explain some poltergeist activity. So, we may have better answers, soon.

More about poltergeists

The following references may be useful:

Colin Wilson – Ghost Sightings

This book reads like a children’s series of “ghost stories.” But, it’s actually filled with unique and fascinating information about ghosts and poltergeists.

He was the first researcher I heard mention an eerie connection between poltergeist activity and water, especially unexplained water residues.

Often overlooked by researchers, this book is among my favorite resources for unusual insights about the spirit world. I keep a copy by my desk. Though the stories and descriptions seem light, Wilson includes some unique and useful insights.

Also, I agree with Wilson when he says, “…the evidence is that we do continue to exist. And I don’t think that there’s any possible doubt about it.”

Winchester Mansion (aka Winchester Mystery House) – Wikipedia entry

One of the world’s strangest and most haunted houses. Often, its poltergeist activity is accompanied by small, unexplained pools of water. Those pools occur in rooms with no windows and no adjoining plumbing.

Cases: The Drummer of Tedworth, Enfield Poltergeist

(I will write more about these events, later, and include previously unreported facts. They may shed new light on these famous poltergeist stories.)

Movies: The Entity

This movie — difficult to find as a DVD, since the movie studio discontinued it — is one of the most notorious stories of poltergeist activity.

It also claims it’s based on a true story. Frankly, I’m not convinced, and I don’t recommend it. The content in this film is very disturbing, and sexually explicit. And, oh yes, not very realistic.

Produced in the early 1980s, the movie is dated. Those who’ve watched it consistently describe it as sick, and too realistic for entertainment.

That may be why the movie was discontinued. Or, the atmosphere it created around viewers may have attracted annoying – or even worrisome – entities.

Books: Harry Potter books, by J. K. Rowling

The poltergeist, Peeves, appears during every school year. However, when he is visible, he generally looks solid. (That’s not common among poltergeists. Few appear in visible form.)

Other Hogwarts spirits, such as Nearly Headless Nick, usually look translucent and slightly glistening or pearlescent. They’re more likely to be ghosts, not poltergeists.

Note: Peeves wasn’t in the Harry Potter movies, but he is in a video on YouTube:

In general, I regard poltergeists as mischievous spirits, sometimes given energy by emotional people (especially young teens) in the general vicinity.

Ignored, their activity may seem to get worse, briefly, and then stop or occur infrequently. So — in the long run — it’s best to give them minimal attention, before taking more aggressive steps to deal with the situation.

Ghost Investigations and Touching

“Touching” occurs at some ghost investigations. The sensation of touch is among our five (or six) senses.

It’s one way that spirits may attempt to make contact… literally.

Normal touching

During a ghost investigation, you may feel:

A ghostly hand touch or brush your face or neck.
A gentle brush, as if you’re walking through spiderwebs, even when you’re sitting still.
Isolated hot or cold areas, often measured with a thermometer.
A ghostly breath, particularly near the investigator’s face.
A slap, push, or shove. Nothing too aggressive.
Something leaning into you, encouraging (or forcing) you to move in a certain direction.
Hair brushed, tugged or pulled.
Clothing grasped or tugged.
A sensation that the air is denser, as if you’re walking through water or molasses.
A feeling that the air is pressing on you, in one direction or from all sides.
Tapping on a shoulder or back.
Letters of the alphabet “written” with a ghostly finger, especially on the back of your hand or on your back.

There are many variations of these sensations. All are routine – but can also be rare – at ghost investigations. Usually, they’re nothing to be alarmed about.

If you’re uncomfortable with that, ask the ghost (or ghosts) to stop. In most cases, they will.

Also, let others know what happened right away, so they can check the area for EMF surges or other paranormal activity.

Inappropriate touching

If the ghost is touching you inappropriately, you must bring that to the attention of others in your group.

This is a rare occurrence, but it happens now & then. Though more women seem to be “touched” than men, it’s not a gender-specific issue.

It is not okay for a ghost to ignore your boundaries. Keep in mind, most ghosts are from an era when touching — especially of a sexual nature — was even less acceptable than it is now.

Times have changed, and so have the cues

As the song, “Anything Goes,” reminds us:

“In olden days, a glimpse of stocking
“Was looked on as something shocking.”

Likewise, in the early 19th century, a kiss was considered so significant, some expected a marriage proposal to follow immediately.

Through the early 20th century, a single man and woman would avoid being together (but otherwise alone) in a room with the door closed.

That was against the rules of propriety.

By the late 20th century, the rules had changed again. In some eras and cultures – especially the hippie community – “love the one you’re with” was okay. Others sternly disapproved.

So, the range of what’s inappropriate is even broader when you’re dealing with a ghost.

Depending on his or her context, any touching could be a warning sign for investigators.

What ghosts expect

Some of our most colorful investigations (and ghost stories) are related to locations that were once bordellos.

Wunsche Cafe in Old Town Spring, Texas, is one.

Oilcan Harry’s in Austin, Texas, is another.

So, some ghosts may not realize that investigators – particularly women – cannot be treated as the people who once worked at the brothel.

If you have concerns, state the rules and boundaries out loud.

Also remember that women in trousers were regarded differently prior to the early 20th century. In general, women’s bodies were far more concealed – by corsets, bustles and loose-fitting clothing – than today.

Language considered crude (in the ghost’s era) can also send a confusing signal to ghosts. In fact, speaking directly to a ghost – without introducing yourself first – could be considered very forward, in their world.

The ghosts may not reply (since, as far as they’re concerned, you’re being rude) or think it’s an invitation for something you weren’t expecting.

It may help to announce your name, what you’re doing there, and the year you’re in, each time you investigate a different room or part of the site.

State the rules and boundaries out loud

It’s always better to be too careful than too casual, if you have concerns in a haunted location. Set firm rules and boundaries at the start of each phase of the investigation, and explain them to the ghosts, out loud.

Then, if the ghost behaves inappropriately, he (or she) has no excuse for it. You’ll know right away that the ghost is ignoring your rules, if you’ve already made those rules clear.

If that happens, be sure you’re accompanied by several people, and that continued touching will not be tolerated.

Opportunistic touching

This additional issue is rare, but important.

Even one “problem” in our community is a risk to all of us, as professionals.

We’re often researching in the dark.

Groups split up to investigate.

It’s important never to be alone with someone you don’t know, or with someone who makes you even a little uncomfortable.

Even in a group or crowd, stay away from people who give off a “bad vibe” or seem to make excessive eye contact.

At the other extreme, be wary of anyone avoiding any eye contact at all.

If you feel very uncomfortable or uneasy, say something to a person in charge.

If the situation doesn’t improve, leave the investigation.

(Ask to be escorted to your car, by someone you trust. Never leave a group by yourself, if you’re already anxious about your safety.)

Before accepting someone on your team, no matter how likable the person seems, check his or her background. Ask for ID, so you know what name to research.

When I recently heard about a ghost investigator’s criminal record, I checked his name at the FBI’s National Sex Offender Public Website. There was no record of his past problems, though I’d heard about them from an impeccable source.

I realized that I don’t know his real name. It’s routine for researchers to use a “pen name” to distance paranormal work from their personal and professional lives.

Also, nicknames can be very different from real names. For example, Ted can be short for Theodore or Edward. Nellie can be a nickname for Helen. William is Bill and Robert can be Rob or Bob. Elizabeth can be Beth, Betty, Eliza, Liz, and so on.

So, sex offender lists aren’t 100% reliable if you’re checking on someone you might be alone with. (Check them anyway.) Always take precautions, and follow your “gut feeling” when you’re on a ghost tour or investigation.

I’ve always said: We have more to fear from the living than from the dead.

Use common sense

If your children want to go on a ghost tour or attend an event, they must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. That’s not just about the tour guides, but a concern about others attending the tour or event, who might see the darkness as an opportunity.

Here’s the rule: If you feel that you’ve been touched (or had a physical encounter of any kind) -by a ghost or someone in physical form – say something immediately.

If you’re not comfortable with what happened, say that very clearly, too.

Don’t think it was all in your imagination. Speak up, and let the other investigators (or guests) respond immediately.

After all, it might be a ghost manifesting so physically, we could catch an image in a photo. We might be able to record his/her voice in EVP, or measure other physical anomalies with EMF detectors, thermometers, and other tools.

Physical contact with ghosts is unusual in most haunted settings. Physical abuse by a ghost – slapping, pinching, or scratching – can happen, too, but it’s a major warning sign. That location isn’t safe, and the entity might be demonic.

Whenever it feels like someone has touched you, especially if it wasn’t necessary, speak up.

It might have been a ghost. Or it might have been someone in your group, and he, she, or they are using the cover of darkness for bad behavior.

Don’t just shrug it off.

Say something.

Scams and Con Artists in Ghost Hunting – What to Look for

Is that a real ghost hunter… or have they been pretending, perhaps for years?

It’s a legitimate question.

Some people look at ghost hunting, and they see gullible people. Con artists see an opportunity for financial gain, celebrity status, or power.

Sure, some people think they’re more skilled than they really are.

They’re not con artists… or they don’t start out that way.

When I talk about scammers and con artists, I mean the people who look you straight in the eye and tell you lies.

All they care about is personal or professional gain.

Here’s what to look for.

The Biggest Cons Are About Money

The first rule is: Never give or loan money to anyone without getting a signed, dated receipt. (It’s a good idea to have a long-time, trusted friend as a witness, as well.)

I don’t care how nice the person seems. If it’s a loan, also have the terms in writing before you give the person anything.

Create a contract. It doesn’t have to look super-formal. Handwritten is okay.

Include the following in it.

- When the loan was made, and the full names of the people involved.
- How much it was.
- If the loan will be repaid over time, list expected repayment amounts and dates, and what will happen if those terms aren’t met.
- When it’s going to repaid in full, and what will happen if the loan isn’t repaid on time.
- Interest (if any) you’re charging, or if you’re not charging interest.

And, never give or loan money that you can’t afford to lose.

Keep your money safe. Then, look for other signs of a scam or a con artist.

After all, most legitimate businesses – or those starting a business – go to a bank, a credit union, or immediate family for short-term loans. Online options include sites like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and so on.

If the person is asking you for money, instead of borrowing from usual resources, ask yourself, “Why?”

Know the Warning Signs

Con artists are charming… sometimes too charming.
They tell great stories, as if they’ve lived the kind of life you’d like to live. They seem to be successful or they look like rising stars. You feel like you have a connection with greatness.
Con artists collect friends as quickly as possible.
This is partly because they’ll lose so many friends, as people become suspicious. The larger scammers apparent entourage or fan club, the more you’re likely to believe their extravagant claims.
Con artists seem to have dazzling credentials.
Their friends include famous people. Their degrees (or titles) are impressive. They talk about their past experiences, pending TV shows, and celebrity events they’re planning. Their claims are so extravagant, you think, “Who’d make this up?”
Con artists separate people so they don’t swap notes.
A con artist leads you to believe that you’re one of the only people he likes and trusts. He says he doesn’t trust this person… and then that one. Following his advice, you’ll stay away from them. The con artist knows: if you got together and exchanged stories, his lies might be exposed.

Lies Are Their Downfall

Con artists get a thrill – an adrenaline rush – each time they lie and get away with it.

They can’t stop lying for very long… and they’re often lying on a grand scale.

Check the person’s claims and credentials.

Check all of them, not just the first few that he or she mentions. (I’ll talk about the con artist as if the person is male, but there are no gender limits on scammers.)

Check These Types of Claims

Ministers

Let’s say that he claims a degree or a title, such as ‘doctor’ or ‘reverend’. Ask what kind of degree (or title) it is, and where it came from. Anyone can become a legally ordained minister, for little or no expense.

Here’s one resource: the Universal Life Church

Certified

As I mentioned in my article about certified ghost hunters, “certification” only means someone or some organization issued the person a certificate.

For example, until mid-2021, students of my free Ghost Hunting for Beginners Course were offered a free Certificate of Completion on the honor system.

Then, 90% of people clicked from the course page to the certificate download page, without taking the lessons. So, I discontinued it, but those certificates are still out there, so be wary. Ask questions to determine if they actually took – and completed – the course.

In general, anyone can print that certificate and claim that it means something… but really, it’s only as good as their sense of integrity.

Higher Education and Degrees

Some mainstream universities give honorary degrees. I’ve been awarded a few of those, myself.

It’s flattering.

There’s nothing wrong with having that kind of title, and some do require actual work to achieve the degree.

However, it’s not really a formal, four-year+ degree.

If it’s a degree from a university, check the university’s alumni records office.

Ask if the person is a graduate of the school, college or program. (Many schools proudly post an online list of some of their former registered students and graduates. In some cases, you can also use classmates directories, online, for more information.)

Please note that many universities offer extension school courses, online study, and other legitimate educational opportunities that can lead to a degree.

However, to receive a degree from that institution, most (not all) students must be formally accepted to a degree program. A paper trail usually exists.

Diploma Mills

Some “diploma mills” offer degrees (for a fee), too.

If you’re not sure about the college or university, research them. Even if they claim to be accredited, their accreditation may be fake.

Hereditary Titles

If someone claims a British (or other) hereditary title, check Wikipedia. It lists the qualified holders of hereditary titles, including their actual surnames, and when the title was created.

People in the U.S. – and other countries where formal titles aren’t awarded — can be dazzled by claims to a real title.

Always check the person’s credentials, no matter what their IDs say. Fake IDs are available everywhere, and con artists know that a convincing fake ID is a smart investment.

If the person claims to have a title, look it up.

For example, here’s one page at Wikipedia, listing people who hold the British title of Marquess: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_marquessates_in_the_peerages_of_the_British_Isles

If the person’s title is vague but you know their legal surname, David Beamish maintains a list of members of the United Kingdom peerage from 1801 to the present day, and he has indexed it.

It’s at http://website.lineone.net/~david.beamish/peerages_az.htm and other pages at that website. You’ll also want to check Wikipedia’s list of the Peerage of England.

In many countries, someone can legally change his first name to “Lord” or “Baron,” and so on. So, don’t be too impressed if the person’s driver’s license, passport, or library card shows that kind of name. (For example, filmmaker Sacha Baron Cohen isn’t an actual British baron. But, unlike con artists, he doesn’t seriously pretend to be one.)

You’ll find other legitimate lists of hereditary titles if you search using phrases like “list of [country] nobility.” Here are a few: French nobility – Lists of French noble families (in French) – Lists of nobility (at Wikipedia)

Celebrity Connections

If the person claims to have worked with or for a celebrity, confirm that. Find the official website of the celebrity, and contact the person’s manager or press agent. Ask if the celebrity has worked with the person who’s making the claim.

If the person claims to have been a paranormal investigator for many years, there should be clear evidence of that, online.

Even if the person didn’t have his own website, other people will have mentioned the person, at least in reference to a case, a “ghost story,” or an investigation.

You can see how long ago they registered their domain name by using a WhoIs lookup.

(I’m not being critical of people who are new to the field; many are excellent researchers. This article is about lies that reveal a con artist.)

Cast Members and Media Appearances

If someone suggests that they’ve been on a TV or radio show, or appeared on stage, check that online. Go to the show’s official website and search for the person’s name.

(Remember that anyone can add a comment after an article or in a forum, making it appear that someone was in a show. You’re looking for official cast lists and official lists of guest stars.)

A claim may seem harder to verify if the show was cancelled years ago. It’s not that difficult. In most cases, show information remains online for years, even decades after the show is all but forgotten.

The following are a few older ghost-related TV shows sometimes used as references. This kind of “reality” show became so popular, a complete list would be very long.

Some con artists prefer to claim they were on shows so old, it’s difficult to find a reliable list of cast, crew, and guest stars. The following links may help, and some shows include full cast lists at IMDb.

Ghost Hunters. (See TAPS official website.)
Ghost Hunters International (includes a full cast list).
Most Haunted [UK] (The cast list is also at Wikipedia.)
Paranormal State.
Dead Famous.
MTV ‘Fear’ (different from ‘Fear Factor’).
VH1 ‘Celebrity Paranormal’.

Every major ghost-related TV show and movie is represented by at least one webpage or website. If all else fails, check IMDb and Wikipedia.

If You Find a Con Artist, Tell Others

Fortunately, few people in ghost hunting seek a shortcut to fame or fortune… or plain old control over others, aka a “power trip.”

Almost any person’s claims and credentials can be verified using independent sources.

Don’t assume that the person is “too nice” to lie to you, or their friends are too bright to be conned. The more impressive the person’s stories and claims, and the more convincingly they tell them… the more you must verify them, independently.

If the person is a con artist, it’s better to find out early. Thankfully, scams and con artists are a tiny minority. (To quote the movie, Grease, “They’re amoebas on fleas on rats.”)

Avoid them when you can. Report them to law enforcement if they may have committed crimes.

Though it’s important to be watchful for scams and con artists, it’s also important to keep things in perspective.

The vast majority of people who work in paranormal fields are just like you. They’re kind, sincere and genuine. You’ll meet many of them at events, investigations, and in the field. They deserve your friendship and admiration, and they make ghost hunting even more personally rewarding.

Yes, I Was Conned

Over 10 years ago, I was conned. I wrote this article shortly after that painful truth came to light.

Even now, I’m not sure how many people were involved.

It was a clever ruse, and I fell for their extravagant claims. They talked about money, celebrity connections, TV appearances, and more.

I thought no one would make that up. It seemed so easy for anyone to fact-check their claims, I didn’t bother. (Big mistake on my part.)

Then, one of them went too far.

He mentioned a connection to a noted family (with relatives in my hometown) and – instantly – I knew he was lying.

I quizzed him further, expecting him to correct the obvious error.

He didn’t. In fact, he dug himself in, even deeper.

That’s when I began looking into his other claims… and everything unraveled.

In fact, one associated con artist gave the most damning evidence against the guys who’d conned me (and too many others).

The associated con artist was doing damage control, in case he was revealed as an opportunist, too. (Eventually, he was.)

I’m still sad about what happened, but I had to speak up.

Those of us who’d trusted the guys… we looked foolish.

Some friends had lost thousands of dollars. Charges were filed against the con artists.

The tragedy is, the highest-profile member of the team was a truly gifted psychic.

He made poor personal and business choices, and that brought him down.

Since then, I’ve also learned about convicted sex offenders (be careful around strangers in dark settings) and other criminals in the ghost hunting field.

Other Ghost Hunting Professionals Were Conned, Too

A few years ago, professionals revealed alarming financial issues with my former manager.

Thank heavens I’d stopped working with him long before his problems came to light, but I feel so very sorry for friends who lost money to him.

Worse, he’d been using my name to gain access to celebrity acquaintances and wannabe stars alike.

Please be cautious, even when the individual or team seems bright, fun, and on the brink of becoming celebrities.

Be especially wary if your “gut feeling” tells you that something’s not quite right – or has suddenly changed – with that person.

Trust your instincts, and question everything.

Spiritual Protection for Ghost Hunters

Spiritual protection for ghost hunters can be important.

Spiritual Protection for Ghost Hunters After all, we usually don’t know how dangerous a site is until we investigate it.

Arrive prepared, even if you think it will be a simple, casual investigation.

Three Questions to Ask

What protections have worked for people in the past, and which makes the most sense to you?
Does it fit with your own spirituality? (If something goes against your faith, don’t use it.)
Does it fit the spirituality of the ghosts? That is, what did they believe in – or fear – during their lifetimes?

Popular Protections

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves are available at most grocery stores. Garlic not only repels werewolves and vampires, at least according to folklore, it’s also supposed to keep demons at a distance.

You can carry it in a pocket or your backpack. Some people have a clove in a pendant and wear it as a necklace.

If you tuck a garlic clove in your shoe and it’s against your skin, expect “garlic breath” within a few hours. It will penetrate the skin, enter your blood stream, and carry the odor throughout your body. That’s actually a way some people use garlic as a health treatment.

Salt

I use white salt, but it’s one of two kinds of salt for protection. (The other is black salt.)

White salt is everyday table salt. You probably have it in your kitchen, and you’ll find it in your clients’ kitchens. You can use any table salt, including pink salt and other specialized sea salts. In fact, I prefer sea salt, but others recommend Kosher salt and other specialized salts. In a pinch — pun intended — any salt can work.

People believe that salt repels ghosts and evil spirits. In fact, an old remedy from folklore is to lay down a line of salt… evil entities cannot cross it.

I’m not sure if that’s true, but it seemed to work the one time I tried it.

Black salt can be one of two kinds of salt. One is edible and the other isn’t.

One is a dark, pinkish, sulphur-y tasting salt mined in India. It’s usually sold in upscale grocery stores, among the exotic and colored table salts. It’s also stocked by some ethnic grocers. Vegans and vegetarians use it to make tofu taste like egg salad.

The other kind of black salt is made by mixing table salt with something to turn it black, like ash or powdered charcoal, cast iron scrapings, or really black pepper. People buy it ready-made, usually at a shop related to witchcraft or a botanica.

In Voodoo and related traditions, black salt may lift curses and repel evil and malicious spirits.

Never eat black salt. Do not give it to anyone to consume. Don’t leave it around where children might decide to taste it. Depending on what the black salt is made from, it could make them ill or even kill them.

Holy Water

Some people use Holy Water to bless houses that have very light (but annoying) paranormal activity.

Crucifix and Holy Water on a fireplace mantel. From what I’ve learned about demonic activity, I would use Holy Water only in situations where there is absolutely, positively no likelihood of malicious and demonic energy.

One thing I learned from the late Father Andrew Calder is: If you’re dealing with something dark and demonic, Holy Water can make things far worse… quickly.

Andy had more experience with demonology and exorcisms than most people, and I trust his advice. I wish I’d learned more from him while he was here, but his warning has stayed with me.

I used to routinely carry Holy Water with me. Also, at some websites, you can learn to make Holy Water at home, or even on-the-spot at a clients’ home. (The Holy Water you’ll decant at almost any mainstream, Christian church is a little different, and — in my opinion — more powerful.)

Since talking with Father Calder, I don’t use it at all. In my opinion, most ghost hunters don’t grasp the dangers of Holy Water — and other Christian symbols — if the problem is demonic.

I know that I didn’t.

First-person stories from John Zaffis and other demonologists made that very clear.

If the situation indicates the need for a house blessing, I tell the client to contact their preferred professional spiritual counsellor.

Most priests and ministers will expect a small donation to help offset their travel expenses, but it’s always worthwhile when a blessing is needed. And, to be blunt, it’s the safest approach.

Charms, amulets, and tokens

St. Michael the Archangel. Click image to download a printable version, and keep it in your wallet or backpack.

In non-demonic settings, spiritual objects, symbols, tokens, and scriptures seem to serve as protection.

Weirdly, that’s true, even when the person using them doesn’t believe in the associated spiritual tradition. I have no idea why.

It’s possible that the object symbolizes a religion that the ghost believed in, or still believes in.

These include holy medals (St. Michael medals are especially popular), pendants representing a lucky horseshoe, iron nails (may repel faeries more than ghosts), or a lucky rabbit’s foot (not widely used during ghost hunts, due to their association with animal cruelty and death).

Some ghost hunters wear “lucky socks” or a similar item of clothing. They firmly believe those items provide protection from evil… or at least bad luck.

Others wear a garment or piece of jewelry that was left outside on the night of February first or second. According to folklore, Brigid (or St. Bridget) blesses these items, making them especially lucky, healing, or protective during the coming year.

Liquor

In some folklore and spiritual traditions, pouring liquor on the ground as a gift is helpful if you’re requesting assistance or protection from the good spirits at the site.

On the other hand, offering liquor to some spirits in Vodun, Voodoo, and related traditions… that can bring out the mischief makers.

My ancestry and traditions are mostly Irish. When I really need help with something, I visit the grave of one particular ancestor, pour good Irish whiskey on the ground, and then have a one-sided chat with her, telling her what I need. It seems to work.

What I use

Quartz crystal Here’s what I carry: I have a couple of crystals in my wallet. One is a Herkimer diamond – the same kind used by “Ghost Busters” Dan Akroyd and his dad, to purify their Crystal Head Vodka.

Sometimes, I carry or wear hematite. Usually, I wear it as a pendant. (Mine is on a simple cord.) In folklore, it’s a general purifier. Does that actually work? I have no idea, but I like it as jewelry.

In my wallet, I have a St. Michael the Archangel medal, blessed by the late demonologist, Father Andrew Calder.

It’s been one of my most valued forms of protection since Andy was called home in September 2012. (Any priest can bless any medal you have. The combination of the St. Michael imagery plus the metal plus the blessing… that can be powerful in some contexts.)

In my car, I usually have blessed salt as well as religious scriptures. I use those only in extreme cases… and that’s very rare. I am very mindful that any case I consider “extreme” could be antagonized – and made worse – by any Christian symbols or scriptures. So, if the situation is that dire, I usually have the client contact a demonologist, or at least a local priest or minister.

Every community, ethnic group and spiritual tradition recommends different kinds of spiritual protection.

Whether those methods actually work or it’s “placebo effect” doesn’t matter to me, as long as (a) it’s not summoning an energy that could later be a problem, and (b) the people who are nervous feel they are out of danger due to that protection.

If you don’t believe in a particular religion but you’ve always wondered if one of their tokens or symbols might be helpful… well, it might be worth a try. (Research it, first. Some spiritual tokens or figures have both a “light” and “dark” side. Don’t make the mistake of accepting help from the spiritual equivalent of an unscrupulous protection racket.)

Protection doesn’t have to be grandiose, super-mystical, or performed with flourishes. It can be a small, mainstream token or gesture, and – to be frank – sometimes those are the very best option, if you might encounter something sinister.

Plan ahead

Spiritual protection can be important for some ghost hunters.

That can be a simple prayer or circle before entering the haunted site, or something else.

It doesn’t have to be an object (after all, what you’re dealing with probably has no physical form in our world), but these are things to think about before your investigation… not something to regret leaving out, once things get strange at a haunted site.

You may also be interested in these articles:

Possessed? Need help?
Exorcisms and Demons
Psychics: Maintaining Your Boundaries
If a Ghost Frightens You