Financial Literacy: Learn About Investment Scams
07/31/2024
Financial Literacy: Learn About Investment Scams
The world of investing has changed dramatically in the last ten years. Not only are people able to invest right from apps on their phones, but new avenues like cryptocurrency have completely changed the game. However, before you jump into the world of investing, it is very important to be aware that many criminals target potential investors for their frauds.
The scariest thing about investment scams is that they often cause their victims to lose big financially. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), people lost $4.6 billion to investment scams in 2023. That is more than in any other category. Luckily, government agencies and legitimate investors are working together to educate investors on how to avoid these costly scams.
Losing your life savings to an investment scam is a legitimate fear for many Americans. However, many are willing to take on that risk in favor of the rewards. Indeed, properly investing your money can help save for things like buying a home or retiring. However, fraudsters are looking for unsuspecting investors to fund their own money making. The scheme usually involves fake investments into financial markets, cryptocurrency, real estate, or precious metals and coins. Fraudsters will usually begin the scam by getting your attention with infomercials, social media posts, or online ads. Some may reach out via direct message on social media platforms, or even on dating apps. Unsolicited contact about investment opportunities should be treated suspiciously from the outset.
Once the scammer has gotten you to engage, they will encourage you to attend free training sessions or seminars where they hope to further hook you in. From there, they will either continue to encourage additional training or coaching that costs a lot of money, or they will collect your money for the fake investments and disappear. Some signs to looks out for in terms of an investment fraudster include:
- Promises of big money and guarantees of profits,
- Claims of little to no risk, time, or effort on your part,
- Claims of secret methods,
- Sparse details,
- High-pressure conversations, including saying space is limited or offering limited- time deals.
It is important to remember that investments can be risky, and licensed investment firms will inform you of such risks. Some investment opportunities are also riskier than others, so never believe claims of guaranteed returns or success.
To vet any investment opportunities, it is important to slow down and thoroughly research your options. Never give in to pressure of limited time deals. Instead, focus on verifying details.
First, you should check to see if the person contacting you is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a legitimate broker on Investor.gov. You may also reach out to your state regulator. The SEC recommends not putting money into stocks, bonds, notes, or other investments not registered with them. Next, you should research the company using terms like “scam,” “fraud,” or “complaint” to see if there are any active problems with them. Scammers often make up fake reviews meant to sway their victims. Finally, you should get all disclosures and information about the investment and have it verified with a trusted and knowledgeable source. You should also be fully aware of the risks involved with any investment before deciding.
The world of investing is complicated, and fraudsters only make it worse. Through education, however, the world of investing can open many avenues.
Sources:
Can you spot an investment scam? | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)