I Beat A Lie Detector Test!

Summary

In this video, lawyer Mike discusses the truth behind lie detector tests, explaining their functions, limitations, and the factors that affect their accuracy. He highlights how polygraph results, despite being used by agencies like the FBI and CIA, aren't always reliable or admissible in court. Mike also explores how polygraphs are used in job vetting and criminal investigations, and provides tips on how to refuse or potentially 'beat' a polygraph. He tests various methods like pain and anti-perspirants, but ultimately advises staying calm and remembering your right to refuse the test.

Takeaways

• 😀 Polygraph tests (lie detectors) are not 100% accurate and can vary greatly depending on the person administering the test, the equipment used, and the individual taking the test.
• 😀 Despite common belief, the accuracy of polygraph tests is often debated, and they are not admissible as evidence in court unless both parties agree.
• 😀 Polygraphs are still widely used by major agencies like the FBI, CIA, DEA, and military to vet candidates for employment, despite their questionable accuracy.
• 😀 Polygraphs record various bodily responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and perspiration, which can be affected by emotions unrelated to lying.
• 😀 Before a polygraph test, the examiner will ask baseline questions to establish the subject's normal physiological responses, making the test more accurate for detecting lies.
• 😀 Refusing to take a polygraph test during a criminal investigation is within your legal rights, as you are never obligated to take one, even if pressured by authorities.
• 😀 Statements made before or after taking a polygraph test can be used as evidence in court, even though the test results themselves may not be admissible.
• 😀 Innocent people can fail a polygraph test, especially if they are nervous or emotional, while guilty individuals may pass if they are calm or psychopathic.
• 😀 There are methods people sometimes attempt to use to beat a polygraph, such as causing physical pain (e.g., sticking a tack in their shoe) or using anti-perspirant on their fingers, but these techniques often don't work.
• 😀 Getting drunk before taking a polygraph is another misguided strategy, as alcohol dampens both truthful and deceptive responses, making the test results unreliable.
• 😀 The best approach to dealing with a polygraph test is to remain calm, assert your right to refuse, and avoid taking the test if possible, as the risks of manipulation or incorrect results outweigh the benefits.

Q & A

How accurate are polygraph tests?

Polygraph tests can vary in accuracy depending on the person administering the test, the machine used, and the individual being tested. The accuracy rate can range from 80 to 90%, but it is not foolproof.

Why aren't polygraph results commonly used in court?

Polygraph results are rarely used in court because they are not considered reliable enough. Most states don't allow polygraph results as evidence in criminal cases, unless both parties agree to it.

Which agencies use polygraphs despite their inaccuracies?

Polygraphs are used by major agencies such as the Department of Defense, FBI, CIA, Secret Service, DEA, NSA, and various law enforcement agencies to vet employees and candidates.

What are some reasons why polygraph tests can be inaccurate?

Polygraph tests measure physiological responses like breathing, heart rate, and sweat, but these can also be influenced by factors such as nerves, anxiety, or fidgeting, not just lying.

Can you refuse to take a polygraph test during a criminal investigation?

Yes, you can refuse to take a polygraph test during a criminal investigation. You are never legally obligated to take one, even if law enforcement tells you that it's mandatory or threatens arrest.

What are the risks of voluntarily taking a polygraph test?

Volunteering for a polygraph test can be risky because investigators might manipulate your results or use your statements before or after the test against you in court, even if the polygraph results themselves are inadmissible.

Why might investigators want you to take a polygraph test?

Investigators might encourage you to take a polygraph to gather evidence against you, as polygraph tests are often used to help them determine whether to charge someone or gather more information in an investigation.

What are the three reasons why you shouldn't take a polygraph test?

1) Statements made before or after the test can be used against you. 2) Police may use the results to decide whether or not to charge you. 3) Innocent people can fail a polygraph due to emotional responses or anxiety.

Can you beat a polygraph test, and if so, how?

It is difficult to beat a polygraph test, but some people attempt methods like the tack-in-shoe technique (causing pain to spike blood pressure), using anti-perspirant to reduce sweating, or consuming alcohol to stay calm. However, these techniques are not foolproof.

Is alcohol effective in helping someone pass a polygraph test?

No, alcohol is not effective in passing a polygraph test. While it might lower your reaction to both truthful and deceptive responses, it doesn't provide any advantage and can still result in a failed test.