Bad / Dishonest
machinations - Crafty schemes or plots, especially intended to achieve something deceitful or underhanded; secret or complicated plans, often with a negative or manipulative goal.
The villain's machinations were finally exposed, revealing his plan to transfer other people's money into his own account.
scheme - A large-scale systematic plan or arrangement for attaining some particular object or putting a particular idea into effect, often through deceptive means
It's better to be honest and work hard, and not spend too much time devising or falling for schemes that are tempting shortcuts to making money.
nepotism - When those with power or influence favor relatives, friends, or associates, such as by giving them jobs or ruling in their favor.
The public was disappointed by the nepotism of the newly elected mayor, when they saw that his whole government was filled with incompetent friends and relatives.
