Psychics and Mediums: The Legal Landscape in the UK

By Jon Donnis

Psychics and mediums have always sparked curiosity, fascination, and, of course, skepticism. From claims of contacting the dead to offering predictions about the future, many people believe in their abilities, while others remain doubtful. In the UK, there is no specific law directly regulating psychics or mediums, but they are still bound by general consumer protection laws, fraud regulations, and rules designed to protect vulnerable individuals. Let's take a look at how the law deals with psychics and their claims, and how things have evolved over the years.

Unlike some professions, psychics and mediums in the UK do not need any formal qualifications or licensing to practice. This lack of regulation means they can operate freely, as long as they do not make fraudulent or misleading claims. While psychics are free to charge for their services, the law steps in when claims become specific, falsifiable, or deliberately deceptive. For example, if a psychic says they can contact the dead and charge money for it, but it is shown to be false, they might be in breach of the law. The problem is that many psychics keep their claims vague, such as saying "I sense a presence" or "The spirits are guiding me." This leaves plenty of room for interpretation and makes it difficult for the law to take action.

One important law worth mentioning is the Fraudulent Mediums Act 1951, which made it illegal for anyone to claim they could use spiritualism or other similar methods to deceive people for financial gain. In theory, psychics could be prosecuted under this law if they misled people into believing they had genuine supernatural abilities. However, the act had significant limitations. It was difficult to prove that a psychic was intentionally deceiving someone, and the law was rarely enforced. Over time, the Fraudulent Mediums Act was seen as ineffective and was eventually repealed in 2008, replaced by more modern consumer protection laws.

After the repeal of the Fraudulent Mediums Act, the UK introduced the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (CPRs) in 2008. These regulations aimed to protect consumers from misleading business practices, including psychic services. If a psychic makes a claim that cannot be proven, like guaranteeing contact with a loved one from beyond, they could be violating these rules. However, just as with the Fraudulent Mediums Act, it is tricky to bring a case against psychics because their claims are often vague. If a psychic says "I believe I can help you find answers" or "I feel a presence," it is hard to argue that they are actively trying to deceive someone.

The Fraud Act 2006 is another piece of legislation that could apply to psychics. If a psychic makes false claims with the intent to deceive for financial gain, they could be charged with fraud under this law. However, again, proving that a psychic knowingly misled someone is difficult, especially when their language remains open-ended. Many psychics operate in a way that makes it hard to pinpoint clear deceit. They often say things like "I sense someone nearby" or "The spirits are speaking to me" without offering concrete proof, which makes it difficult for the law to get involved.

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) also plays a role in keeping psychic advertising in check. If a psychic makes misleading claims in their ads, the ASA can investigate and ask for the removal or revision of the advertisements. This ensures that psychics do not advertise things they cannot prove, like promising to contact the dead or predict the future with certainty.

Another important issue in the regulation of psychics and mediums is the potential for exploitation, especially of vulnerable individuals. Many people turn to psychics in times of emotional distress, such as after the loss of a loved one or during personal crises. Psychics who take advantage of people's vulnerability by offering false hope or charging excessive fees for services can be seen as exploiting their clients. While there are laws designed to prevent aggressive or coercive practices, proving exploitation in the case of psychics is difficult. The line between providing comfort and exploiting someone's grief can be blurry, and as a result, psychics are often able to operate without facing significant legal consequences.

The legal framework surrounding psychics and mediums in the UK has evolved over time, but there remain gaps in regulation. The repeal of the Fraudulent Mediums Act 1951 in 2008 reflected a shift towards more modern consumer protection laws, but proving fraudulent claims or exploitation remains a challenge. The general approach of the law has been to focus on preventing misleading advertising and fraud, but due to the subjective nature of psychic practices, many psychics continue to operate without facing legal repercussions. With the rise of online psychics, there are growing concerns about the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework. Online psychics often operate across borders, making enforcement even more difficult.

While psychics and mediums are still allowed to practice freely in the UK, they must adhere to general consumer protection laws and fraud regulations. However, proving fraud or exploitation is often a complex task. As the popularity of psychics continues to grow, particularly in the digital age, there is increasing debate about whether the legal framework should be updated to provide stronger protection for consumers. For now, psychics and mediums continue to exist in a space where their claims remain open to interpretation, and the legal system is largely reactive when it comes to addressing deceptive practices.

The Myth of the 'Living Nostradamus': Separating Fact from Fiction in Athos Salomé's Predictions

By Jon Donnis

Athos Salomé, a Brazilian psychic who has been dubbed the "Living Nostradamus," has gained significant media attention in recent years. He is frequently featured in UK tabloids like the Daily Express, where his supposed supernatural insights are presented with intrigue and speculation. Salomé claims to possess an extraordinary ability to foresee global events, drawing comparisons to the 16th-century seer Nostradamus, (hence the ridiculous nickname). However, a closer examination of his history, claims, and the evidence surrounding his predictions raises questions about the validity of his supposed psychic abilities.

Salomé's rise to prominence in the media has been driven by his bold assertions that he predicted major events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. These claims have cemented his reputation as a modern-day prophet. He also asserts that his abilities stem from a supernatural gift, allowing him to perceive events before they unfold. Yet, there is little in the way of verifiable evidence to support these statements. Many of his predictions, when scrutinised, appear to rely on vague language and retroactive interpretations, a common hallmark of so-called psychic phenomena.

For instance, Salomé claims to have foreseen the COVID-19 pandemic, but his alleged prediction is steeped in ambiguity. He is reported to have mentioned a "global disruption" and "biological threats" in statements prior to the pandemic. However, such phrases are broad and could be applied to numerous scenarios. Crucially, there is no concrete proof that these statements were made before the pandemic began. In many cases, claims of prior predictions rely on unverifiable or undated sources, making it impossible to confirm whether they were genuine foresights or post-event fabrications.

The same can be said of his assertion that he predicted the conflict in Ukraine. Salomé has pointed to statements about "Eastern unrest" as evidence of his prophetic insight. Yet, political tensions in Eastern Europe have been an ongoing concern for decades, and the suggestion of unrest in this region could be viewed as an educated guess rather than a supernatural vision. Skeptics argue that such predictions are more a matter of probability and intuition than any genuine psychic ability.

More recently, Salomé made headlines by claiming to have warned King Charles III about potential prostate health issues prior to public announcements about the King undergoing treatment. While this claim has garnered attention, it is worth noting that health issues are not uncommon as people age, and a prediction of such a general nature does not necessarily indicate psychic insight. Furthermore, there is no clear evidence that Salomé communicated this warning directly to the King or that it was taken seriously by anyone within the royal household.

Salomé's predictions for 2024 included forecasts of global conflicts, natural disasters, and technological breakthroughs. While these predictions may capture public imagination, they are strikingly similar to the kinds of events that occur with regularity in any given year. Without specific details or verifiable evidence that these statements were made well in advance, they do little to substantiate claims of extraordinary foresight. The general nature of such predictions allows for significant leeway in interpretation, enabling them to be retrospectively aligned with actual events. For example I could claim that a Hurricane will cause great damage on the East Coast of America in 2025, and I will probably be right since that happens every year.

Scientific investigation into psychic phenomena has repeatedly demonstrated the unreliability of such claims. Studies on alleged psychics often reveal that their predictions are no more accurate than random chance. The human tendency to seek patterns and make sense of vague statements, known as the Barnum effect, plays a significant role in how people interpret psychic predictions. Salomé's assertions appear to fall squarely within this realm, relying on ambiguous language and the selective memory of his followers to lend them credibility.

Ultimately, Athos Salomé's claims warrant scepticism. While he has undoubtedly carved out a niche in the world of tabloid intrigue, the evidence supporting his psychic abilities remains unconvincing. His predictions, when stripped of their mystique, often resemble educated guesses rather than genuine prophecy. For those seeking to evaluate his claims critically, it is essential to demand clear, verifiable evidence and resist the allure of vague and retrospective interpretations.

Who is Psychic Baba Vanga?

By Jon Donnis

Baba Vanga, born Vangeliya Pandeva Gushterova in 1911, was a Bulgarian woman who rose to fame as a mystic and clairvoyant. Blind from the age of twelve, following an incident where she was reportedly swept away by a storm, Vanga claimed to have developed extraordinary abilities to foresee the future. Her reputation as a seer attracted visitors from around the world, ranging from ordinary people seeking personal advice to politicians and leaders looking for guidance on global matters. Despite her widespread following, a scientific and sceptical perspective sheds significant doubt on the claims surrounding her abilities.

Intrigued by the frequent mention of Baba Vanga in tabloids, especially around the New Year when predictions often resurface, usually in the Daily Star, I decided to delve into her story. Although I knew little more than the fact that she passed away in 1996, my curiosity led me to investigate her legacy and the claims made about her alleged prophetic powers.

From a psychological viewpoint, Baba Vanga's purported powers can be partially explained by the Barnum effect, a phenomenon in which individuals interpret vague or general statements as highly specific to themselves. This cognitive bias is frequently exploited by fortune tellers and psychics, allowing broad predictions to resonate deeply with listeners who unknowingly project their own meanings onto the statements. Many of Baba Vanga's predictions, when analysed closely, exhibit this ambiguity. For instance, her alleged prediction of the September 11 attacks in the United States referred to "steel birds" causing devastation, a metaphor that could be interpreted in multiple ways only after the event occurred.

Confirmation bias further reinforces belief in Baba Vanga's predictions. Followers tend to remember the predictions that appeared accurate while ignoring or rationalising those that did not come true. For example, she allegedly foresaw World War III occurring in the early 21st century, a prediction that has yet to materialise. However, her proponents often reinterpret such failed forecasts as symbolic rather than literal, thus preserving the illusion of accuracy.

Another factor contributing to the mythos of Baba Vanga is the lack of verified documentation for many of her predictions. Most claims about her prophecies have emerged after her death in 1996, making it difficult to determine whether these statements were genuine or retroactively attributed to her. The absence of credible sources documenting her words raises questions about the authenticity of her predictions and suggests that her legacy has been shaped as much by folklore and media sensationalism as by any factual basis.

From a sociological perspective, Baba Vanga's popularity can be attributed to the human tendency to seek certainty in uncertain times. Her rise coincided with periods of political and economic instability in Eastern Europe, where people often turned to supernatural explanations to make sense of chaos. Her role as a trusted adviser provided psychological comfort to many, reinforcing her status as a figure of authority despite the lack of empirical evidence supporting her claims.

Scientific inquiry into psychic phenomena has consistently failed to provide proof of extrasensory perception or precognition. Controlled experiments have demonstrated that purported psychics perform no better than chance when their abilities are rigorously tested under conditions designed to prevent cheating or accidental cues. Baba Vanga's predictions, viewed through this lens, are more likely the result of suggestion, coincidence and selective memory than genuine foresight.

Her blindness may have also contributed to her perceived mystique. People with disabilities have historically been regarded as possessing heightened spiritual insight in many cultures, a stereotype that likely influenced perceptions of Baba Vanga. Combined with her modest background and the dramatic narrative of her childhood injury, these elements created an image of someone uniquely positioned to channel divine or supernatural messages.

Despite these sceptical considerations, Baba Vanga remains an enduring cultural figure. Her legacy has been perpetuated through books, documentaries and online discussions that often omit critical analysis. Modern proponents continue to attribute world events to her visions, sustaining her relevance in popular culture. While believers view her as proof of supernatural forces, sceptics see her as an example of how psychological and social factors can combine to create the illusion of prophetic powers.

Baba Vanga's story exemplifies the intersection of folklore, psychology and cultural belief systems. While her predictions lack empirical validation, her legacy endures as a testament to humanity's fascination with the mysterious and the unknown. A scientific approach encourages critical thinking about such claims, reminding us to seek evidence before accepting extraordinary assertions as truth.

The Illusion of the Supernatural: A Critical Look at Gary Mannion’s Psychic Medium Claims

Image: BBC Press - BBC Three - Gary: Young, Psychic and Possessed

By Jon Donnis

In the world of the paranormal, few figures have generated as much controversy as Gary Mannion. A self-proclaimed psychic medium and healer, Mannion claims to communicate with the dead, perform spiritual surgeries, and channel otherworldly entities. However, sceptics and investigators have repeatedly raised serious concerns about the legitimacy of his so-called abilities, with many alleging outright fraud. By examining his methods and past controversies, it becomes clear that Mannion is more showman than shaman, relying on illusion and trickery to exploit the vulnerable.

Allegations of Fraud and Exposure

Gary Mannion's credibility took a significant hit in 2016 when undercover footage from one of his séances revealed the reality behind his alleged supernatural abilities. During a séance in which he performed "physical mediumship", a practice where objects are moved or manipulated, supposedly by spirits, infrared cameras captured Mannion leaving his seat, moving around the room, and manipulating objects himself. Despite his claim of being in a "trance state" and having no physical control of his body, the footage clearly showed Mannion orchestrating the phenomena he attributed to spirits.

https://www.banyanretreat.com/wp-content/uploads/PsychicNewsMag%20Oct16-GaryMannion.pdf

This damning evidence should have been the final nail in the coffin for his career. Yet, Mannion's loyal followers either dismissed the footage as fabricated or continued to believe his excuses, illustrating the potent psychological hold such performers can exert over their audiences.

The Tricks Behind the Trade

Like many self-proclaimed psychics, Mannion employs techniques well-known to magicians and illusionists. Cold reading, for instance, is a common strategy used to give the impression of psychic knowledge. By observing a person's body language, tone of voice, or other subtle cues, a cold reader can make educated guesses that seem uncannily accurate. Hot reading, where information is gathered in advance, may also play a role, especially in séances or private readings where personal details could be researched beforehand.

In physical mediumship, simple stagecraft and sleight of hand are the tools of the trade. The use of dimly lit rooms, for example, creates an environment where visual perception is easily manipulated. When combined with psychological priming, such as convincing attendees that spirits will communicate through physical phenomena, this creates fertile ground for deception. The infamous infrared footage of Mannion demonstrated how such tricks are executed when the illusion of darkness is stripped away.

Why People Should Be Wary

The allure of psychic mediums like Gary Mannion is understandable, especially for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The promise of closure or a final message from the departed is a powerful emotional draw. However, this emotional vulnerability is precisely what makes individuals susceptible to exploitation. Many so-called psychics operate in a grey area, offering vague reassurances that are difficult to disprove while charging exorbitant fees for their services.

It is crucial to approach such claims with a critical mind. Science provides no evidence to support the existence of life after death, let alone communication with spirits. While it may be comforting to entertain such notions, they often serve as a distraction from healthier coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from friends, family, or professional therapists.

A Call for Skepticism

Gary Mannion's case is a stark reminder of the importance of scepticism when confronted with extraordinary claims. The scientific method teaches us to demand evidence and to critically evaluate that evidence, especially when it challenges our understanding of the natural world.

For those considering consulting a psychic medium, remember: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. The tools of deception are well-documented, and the psychological impact of such performances can be profound. Protecting oneself from exploitation begins with education and a healthy dose of scepticism.

As the saying goes, "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence." Until figures like Mannion can provide such evidence, they should be viewed not as conduits to the supernatural but as performers skilled in the art of illusion, and nothing more.

Further Reading:

Trading standards are investigating a 'psychic surgeon' from Harrow following a BBC documentary on his work.

https://www.mylondon.news/news/local-news/harrow-psychic-under-investigation-6010219

New site exposing Gary Mannion.

https://www.garymannionfraud.com/

New Website Exposing Gary Mannion

I just was informed of a new website that is claiming it has exposed Gary mannion.

https://www.garymannionfraud.com/

They have videos of one of his seances where a ridiculous mask is used, the claim being it is the ectoplasmic head of "William".

Anyway check out there site, give them your support and enjoy the latest saga in the Gary Mannion story.

I am always happy to see people step up and take on self proclaimed psychics and mediums. We need more people out there willing to take them on. Bravo!

Site is https://www.garymannionfraud.com/

DISCLAIMER: BadPsychics have nothing to do with the site, and do not state a position on anything they say or claim, go look and make your own mind up.