Interference from outside entities can be of two kinds. The first occurs when people are aware that something is wrong, that they have lost control, that an external presence is within them. The second occurs when people are unaware that they are being controlled by an outside force. In fact, they may believe they have gained supernormal powers from their practice. Worse, they may believe they are enlightened. In these cases, the spirits have already become attached to their minds. They are not aware of another presence, and think nothing is wrong.

Being aware of an outside influence is better than not being aware. People may think that there is a spirit, deity, bodhisattva or Buddha using their bodies to spread the Dharma. They know they are not the ones who are acting. But being unaware is more serious. Such people may think they are enlightened. If they are told that their experiences and behavior do not stand up against the teachings of the Buddha, they will not believe you. Such people have tremendous confidence in themselves and can usually influence many people. These people are said to have fallen into demonic states.

Most serious is when a person feels he or she has reached Buddhahood. Insanity is not even as bad. At least then it is clear that there is a problem, and the person can be helped. People who think they are Buddhas or bodhisattvas don't believe they need help and can lead many others down erroneous pathways.