Scorpios are people born between October 23 and November 22. They have a strong intuition, razor-sharp focus, and a strong sense of loyalty. But beware of the poisonous stinger, as the cosmic scorpion is also known to be jealous, moody, and vindictive. These mystical water signs have many enviable qualities, but understanding some of the Scorpio zodiac signs’ biggest flaws helps us understand their habits and motivations on a deeper level.

Scorpios are the zodiac’s fixed water sign, so they excel at developing deep intimacy with others and being honest about their feelings. All of this emotional intensity, however, can build up inside them like a pressure cooker, which is why Scorpios are known for their dangerous and dark sides. But, before we all start slamming Scorpios, it’s important to remember that every zodiac sign has flaws, and Scorpios are no different. Furthermore, because all 12 signs are present in our birth charts, Scorpio energy is a part of everyone’s astrological makeup.

1. They Enjoy Revenge

Scorpios are some of the most devoted and loyal people on the planet — but if you cross them, watch your back, because they can become vindictive when they feel slighted or wronged. Competitive Scorpios find it difficult to let bygones be bygones, and they do not believe the score is properly settled until they have exacted revenge on those who have wronged them.

2. They’re a little obnoxious

Scorpios are the natural rulers of the zodiac’s eighth house, which governs intimacy and shared resources — and this influence may explain why Scorpios are so possessive of the things, people, and situations in their lives. Scorpios find it difficult to be vulnerable, so when they become invested in and attached to something, it can trigger their fear of loss and bring out controlling behaviors.

3. They have the potential to be intimidating.

Scorpios like to appear cool, calm and collected, which isn’t too difficult for them to do because they usually have a mysterious sort of je ne sais quoi. However, their introverted and difficult-to-read demeanor can come across as cold, standoffish, and intimidating at times. It’s great to have a commanding presence, but being too distant can turn people off.

4. They are constantly on the defensive.

Scorpios, who are represented by the powerful scorpion, are equipped with the emotional equivalent of a poison-filled stinger — and they aren’t afraid to use it. Scorpios can be paranoid when it comes to protecting themselves, so they frequently have their guard up and can become overly defensive.

5. They are easily envious

Scorpios, as one of the sentimental water signs, have deep feelings and strong emotional reactions — and this sensitivity can sometimes earn them a bite from the green-eyed monster. Scorpios are known for being envious of lovers, friends, and even colleagues, so they must work hard to overcome their envy.

6. They Can Become Obsessed

Scorpios are one of the fixed signs, and once they set their minds to something, they won’t stop until the task is completed. However, this intensity can sometimes border on obsessive. Scorpios are prone to becoming overly immersed in the details of a situation and focusing on specific details for far too long.

7. They’ll Never Forgive You

Someone who has lost a Scorpio’s trust is unlikely to regain it. Scorpios are masters of holding grudges and are slow to forgive or forget. They dislike being played or betrayed, and if this occurs, they are likely to hold it against that person for the rest of their lives. A traitor is a traitor forever (at least in the mind of a Scorpio).

8. They are capable of being cold and calculated.

Scorpios are known for their strategic approach to life, but their calculated way of thinking can sometimes come across as cold or cruel — especially when applied to interpersonal relationships. Scorpios must summon empathy if they find themselves leaning too heavily on their Machiavellian instincts.

9. They are extremely private.

Privacy is important, but secretive Scorpios can take it too far and make it difficult for others to see the real them. Scorpios find it difficult to share intimate or private information because they fear it will make them more vulnerable — so they often keep people at a distance until they feel they’ve built up enough trust.

10. They Become Power-Hungry

Scorpios, the only sign ruled by the intense planet Pluto, can get carried away with their desire to be on top — and they’ll go to any length to ensure they get what they want. Their power-hungry tendencies can lead to them becoming competitive, cutthroat, and unscrupulous in their pursuit of success.