Use this interactive tool to identify potential financial scams and protect yourself from fraud.
About This Checklist
Use this checklist to identify common warning signs of investment fraud. Check all boxes that apply to your situation. The more boxes you check, the more likely you are dealing with a scam.
Check items in the list above to see your risk assessment
Items checked: 0 of 14
Common Scam Structures
Be aware that investment fraud can take many forms. Some of the prevalent scam types include:
Ponzi/Pyramid Schemes High Risk
No real investment is happening – money from new investors is used to pay fake "returns" to earlier investors. These collapse when new victim money runs out.
Unlicensed Forex & Crypto Platforms High Risk
Fake online trading platforms that show you making profits on forex, cryptocurrency, or stock trades. In reality, the data is fabricated. You may even be allowed a small withdrawal early on to build trust, then later all withdrawals are blocked.
Advance Fee Frauds Medium Risk
Schemes where you are told you've made money or are eligible for a big payout, but you must pay a fee or tax first to receive it. Once you pay, the scammer disappears or comes up with another fee.
Boiler Room Scams High Risk
High-pressure calls from fake stock brokers pushing worthless shares or phony investments (often overseas). They use professional-sounding pitches and sometimes send glossy brochures – but the investment is bogus or vastly overpriced.
Affinity or Social Media Scams Medium Risk
Scammers who exploit trust within a community or group (church, club, online forum) or via social media/romance. They use a common affiliation or relationship to lower your guard, then pitch the fraudulent investment.
What To Do If You Suspect a Scam
If you checked multiple boxes above or recognize any of these scam structures, exercise extreme caution. You may be dealing with a fraud. Consider:
Stopping any further payments
Documenting all interactions with the suspected scammer
Contacting your local financial regulator to report the potential scam
Consulting with a financial advisor or attorney before taking any further action
Warning friends and family who may be targeted by the same scammers