This is one of the investments no normal person with a healthy common sense would even consider to invest in. So if you see "timeshare" and are not dropping the flyer into the trash can, that already says that you are open to getting screwed over. It's like the "African prince died, gives you $10 mio if you give us your credit card details".
That said, there is nearly no game or investment that doesn't at least have some people trying to cheat others.
So in practice, I know this is true, but in principle, splitting a vacation property 52 ways so that everyone gets one week a year actually seems pretty reasonable. Why is it that these things are always scams?
They are NOT always scams, they just have bad reputation because of possibility of abuse.
There are plenty of good management companies that run thousands of timeshare units. My family pays for 3 and all are in perfect shape, own private beach access, gives access to nice cars (that are changed to new every 2 years) and have very strict rules on participants. No, you cannot just crash place with your friends and call the day; the penalties are harsh and good timeshare management will match you with people interested in similar lifestyle. They are much much cheaper than price of tickets / setting up vacation trip and the thought alone that maximum 52 people (versus 365 in hotel room) per year slept in that bed and took a dump in that toilet is a very comfortable one :)
I have good news and bad news. The bad news is, your uncle in Nigeria died. Want to know the good news before or after you give me your credit card details?
That said, there is nearly no game or investment that doesn't at least have some people trying to cheat others.