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Personal · Security and fraud · Types of Scams

What is an investment scam?

In investment scams, fraudsters try to deceive individuals into transferring money to fake opportunities or making payments to untrustworthy platforms. Victims are usually targeted via social media or email. Scammers pose as brokers promising high returns with minimal risk and sometimes succeed in convincing victims to pay to alleged investment websites. After payment, victims receive an SMS confirming the transaction. Scammers may use various narratives, like requesting a legal fee for balance withdrawal, to pressure victims into making more payments. When victims refuse to pay more, scammers stop responding. To protect yourself against these scams, stay vigilant and carefully verify investment opportunities.

What can I do to avoid investment scams?

  1. Get advice before you invest: talk with a third party, someone who can provide unbiased advice.
  2. Use genuine companies: verify the authenticity of the platform or website you’re choosing to make the investment with.
  3. Check the website before you invest: make sure the website’s URL is correct. Look out for consistent branding, secure payment gateways, and clear contact information.
  4. Verify if the investment is registered: always check the official records in your country.
  5. Beware of promises of high rates of return and quick profits: scammers can be very persuasive and tend to promise very high returns with very little to no risk.
  6. Be suspicious of high-pressure sales: exercise caution when someone is pushing you to act fast, you should always be able to have time to assess the situation.
  7. Beware of unsolicited offers: receive a call for a perfect investment opportunity? Be wary of these calls, they could be a scam.

Never enter your bank or card details on an untrustworthy website. This includes your online banking password and your card PIN.

What can I do if I've fallen victim to a scam?

  1. Stop communication with the fraudster.
  2. Contact us immediately via the in-app chat.
  3. Recommended: report the matter to a regulatory institution. You can find some useful contacts in this FAQ in our Help Centre.