Recognize the pattern
How it starts
Social ads, investment seminars, or unsolicited calls.
The promise
Guaranteed gains, protected capital, and limited places.
What happens next
Promotional profits create confidence, then pressure drives payment. Displayed returns do not establish a real investment.
Signs to watch for
- Promises a certain return
- Payee differs from the company
- Withholds verifiable documents
Start with what you can do now
If this happened to you
Pause additional deposits and borrowing.
Tell your bank or payment provider about the suspected scam.
Save the offer and transaction records for an SEC or FTC report.
What to save
Keep the original records. Use copies to organize the details.
- Investment promotion
- Offer documents
- Payee account
- Payment receipts
Before you send money
- Check the investment professional through Investor.gov.
- Read the risks, fees and withdrawal terms before paying.
- Get an independent opinion instead of relying on a referral.
These guides explain common patterns. The facts of your situation and your payment provider’s rules determine which steps are available.