If someone has these 8 personality traits, you cannot trust them

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Who can you trust?

It’s a big question that’s not always easy to answer.

Sometimes, people show signs that they can’t be trusted, and it’s not always about lying or cheating.

It can be in their personality.

I’ve made a list of 8 personality traits that might mean someone isn’t trustworthy.

Keep reading, and we’ll go through them one by one so you know what to watch out for.

1. Gossiping

We’ve all heard the saying, “If someone talks about others behind their back, they will talk about you, too.”

People who can’t keep other people’s secrets or who are constantly gossiping about others are likely not the best people to trust with your own personal information.

Sure, it can be tempting to listen to the latest scoop about someone else’s life, but remember: if they’re willing to share others’ secrets with you, they’re probably willing to share your secrets with others.

Trust is built on respect for privacy, and gossipers usually don’t have much respect for that.

2. Inconsistency

Remember that friend you had who would make plans with you but would then cancel at the last minute?

Or how about that colleague who’d promise to help with a project but would then completely disappear when you needed them?

These inconsistent behaviors are a big red flag.

People who can’t stick to their word or who change their minds all the time can be frustrating to deal with.

Not only does this kind of behavior make it hard to rely on them, but it can also make you question their sincerity.

If you can’t count on someone to do what they say they’re going to do, it’s hard to trust them with anything important.

3. Self-Centeredness

Have you ever been in a conversation where the other person seems to only talk about themselves?

It’s like you’re just a backdrop to their monologue.

People who are excessively self-centered tend to prioritize their own needs and feelings above everyone else’s.

They might not listen to you when you need a sympathetic ear or they may disregard your feelings.

Trust is a two-way street, and it requires mutual respect and understanding.

If someone is only looking out for themselves, it’s hard to believe they’ll have your best interests at heart.

4. Excessive Flattery

Wait, isn’t it a good thing when someone showers you with compliments?

Not necessarily.

Beware of people who use excessive flattery, as it may not be as innocent as it seems.

It might feel great to be around someone who always seems to think you’re amazing, but it’s important to ask yourself why they’re doing it.

Are they being genuine, or are they trying to win you over for some ulterior motive?

People who are overly flattering might actually be trying to manipulate you, making it hard to trust their intentions.

Remember, true friends don’t need to constantly praise you to show they care.

5. Playing the Victim

You know that person who always seems to have the world against them, and nothing is ever their fault?

Be cautious.

It’s natural to empathize with someone who seems to be going through a tough time, but watch out for those who constantly portray themselves as victims.

This behavior can be a sign of someone who is not willing to take responsibility for their actions or who seeks attention and sympathy by manipulating others.

These individuals might use their “victim” status to excuse their own untrustworthy actions, making it difficult for you to hold them accountable.

Trusting someone who avoids accountability is risky because you never know when they’ll let you down and then blame it on external factors.

6. They Never Apologize

Remember that time when a friend hurt your feelings and instead of saying sorry, they made excuses?

That can be a sign of untrustworthiness.

People who can’t apologize when they’re wrong are showing a lack of self-awareness and empathy.

It takes a lot of maturity to admit when you’ve messed up, and to genuinely try to make things right.

When someone can’t do that, it makes you wonder whether they really care about your feelings or the impact of their actions.

Trusting someone who never apologizes is like trying to build a house on shaky ground – it’s only a matter of time before things fall apart.

7. Chameleon Behavior

Have you ever met someone who seemed to change their opinions and behaviors depending on who they were with?

It’s like they were trying to blend in, just like a chameleon changes its colors to match its surroundings.

This can be a fascinating trait to observe, but it can also be a sign of untrustworthiness.

When someone constantly adapts their persona to fit in with different groups, it becomes hard to know who they really are.

Are they being genuine, or are they just mirroring others to gain approval?

If you can’t pin down their true self, it’s hard to trust them, because you don’t know which version of them is real.

Just like a chameleon, they might be blending in for survival, but that doesn’t mean they’re showing their true colors.

8. They Avoid Eye Contact

You’ve probably heard that the eyes are the windows to the soul.

Well, there’s some truth to that.

Have you ever tried to have a serious conversation with someone who wouldn’t meet your eyes?

It can be unsettling.

People who avoid eye contact may be hiding something or not being completely honest with you.

Of course, it’s natural to look away now and then, especially when thinking or recalling information.

But if someone consistently avoids your gaze when talking about important matters or answering questions, it might be a sign that they’re not being entirely truthful.

Trust is built on open and honest communication, and that’s hard to achieve when someone can’t even look you in the eye.

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Lachlan Brown

I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder, and editor of Hack Spirit. I love writing practical articles that help others live a mindful and better life. I have a graduate degree in Psychology and I’ve spent the last 15 years reading and studying all I can about human psychology and practical ways to hack our mindsets. Check out my latest book on the Hidden Secrets of Buddhism and How it Saved My Life. If you want to get in touch with me, hit me up on Facebook or Twitter.

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