Well, I've to agree with you. Sometimes, it seems the good ones are the ones who suffer the most while the "smart ones" rock and rule the world.
I still believe in karma just like you rightly pointed out. Judging from my Christian background, the bible says "No sinner will go unpunished" while they dump the system and move on to the next, karma will surely catch up with them.
And sometimes, you can't really change who you are as a person. If you are good, then you are good although circumstances can make anyone change.
I usually don't bother my head with such things because I love my peace of mind. I wouldn't want to play smart to hurt anyone in the process. I prefer to play "good" and have my peace of mind.
It's sad, that is the society we found ourselves where everyone wants to join the winning side, but to what end?