The discussion revolves around the troubling normalization of academic fraud and the culture surrounding it. A personal account describes how a postdoc encountered academic misconduct perpetrated by a PhD student under a prominent professor. When the postdoc reported the issue, she faced bullying and threats, leading to her eventual exit from academia despite her integrity. The broader commentary suggests that fraud has become ingrained in many sectors, reflecting a problematic mindset that prioritizes personal gain over ethical standards. The conversation raises concerns about systemic issues in academia and other fields, suggesting reforms such as promoting replication studies to foster a culture of accountability. The idea that 'fake it till you make it' highlights a troubling acceptance of dishonesty as a career strategy.