There are groups which combine all or some of these elements, especially when the group is large and has a variety of “fronts” or other entities.
A destructive cult is a pyramid-shaped authoritarian regime with a person or group of people that have dictatorial control. It uses deception to recruit new members and does not tell them what the group is, what the group actually believes, and what will be expected of them if they become members. It also uses undue influence to keep people dependent, obedient, and loyal.
You can use the BITE Model to help you assess the level of control that a group exerts over its members. You can also ask any of the questions below.
Vague, evasive, deceptive, or manipulative answers are a huge red flag! Give yourself the time and space to investigate and think about any groups you are considering.
Do independent research before you make any commitments. Don’t only rely on the recruiter’s information, and don’t let anyone put extreme pressure on you to make quick, impulsive, or uninformed decisions.
[Source: https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/]