How the situation unfolds
- 01
Contact
Social ads, investment seminars, or unsolicited calls.
- 02
The lure
Guaranteed gains, protected capital, and limited places.
- 03
The demand and outcome
Promotional profits create confidence, then pressure drives payment. Displayed returns do not establish a real investment.
Verify these things before paying
- Verify the entity and licence independently
- Read risks and exit terms
- Consult a trusted qualified adviser
Already engaged or paid?
- Stop deposits and borrowing
- Tell your bank about suspected fraud
- Organise payments and report to police
Contact your payment provider and local police promptly. The responsible institution must confirm whether a payment can be stopped, disputed or returned.
Keep these records
Keep originals and organise working copies. Never give strangers verification codes, banking passwords, private keys or seed phrases.
Original references
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)Publisher location:United States · EnglishOpen the original reference ↗https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/investment-scams
- ASIC MoneySmartPublisher location:Australia · EnglishOpen the original reference ↗https://moneysmart.gov.au/check-and-report-scams/check-before-you-invest
This page summarises public prevention guidance to help recognise methods. It is not an enforcement conclusion about a particular incident. Check the source page for its original title. Procedures and reporting routes vary by jurisdiction. Compiled October 2026.
