Some definitely value their personal gain beyond other admirable traits. I've run into several people I wanted no further relation with but only because sometimes our hobbies/professions put us in the same area. It doesn't hurt to be friendly but I don't actively pursue anything further with them beyond what is required at the time.
Keeping oneself secure, to me, means staying away from things/people that make me uncomfortable/stress me out and staying true to myself. I am done with stressing myself out to appease others.
Thanks for sharing your experience.