In a world full of financial noise and scammers, you need to choose your financial advisor very carefully.

In today’s complex financial landscape, it’s crucial to navigate with caution and be aware of the potential risks of falling victim to financial scams. Whether you’re investing in securities or seeking financial advice, it’s essential to safeguard yourself by choosing your financial advisor wisely. In this blog, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting financial advisors and how to recognise the warning signs of con artists. By arming yourself with knowledge and following these guidelines, you can protect your hard-earned money and make informed financial decisions.

The Disguise of Con Artists

Rule Number 1: Con Artists Do Not Like To Be Found

Con artists are masters of disguise, going to great lengths to blend in and gain your trust. They may initiate contact through unsolicited phone calls or appear at your doorstep, presenting themselves as ordinary individuals. To enhance their credibility, they often integrate themselves into various groups, such as political or community organisations, to leverage common bonds and spread the word about their fraudulent investment opportunities.

Rule Number 2: Con Artists Dress For Success

To create an illusion of success and professionalism, con artists meticulously dress the part. They may adopt an affluent appearance and operate from impressive-looking offices. However, appearances can be deceiving, and it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and conduct thorough investigations before entrusting your money to anyone.

Rule Number 3: Con Artists Often Push Poorly Understood Financial Products

Con artists prey on expats seeking guidance in the sea of financial products available today. They offer enticing investment opportunities and assume full responsibility for your investment decisions. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and think independently. Only deal with reputable financial advisers with proven track records. Don’t let con artists sabotage your dreams by promising unrealistic returns without providing comprehensive written information about the product and its associated risks.

Rule Number 4: Con Artists Bring Out The Worst In You

Skilled con artists exploit your emotions, especially greed, fear, and insecurity. They manipulate your fears by warning that questioning a failed investment may harm others or disrupt the system. They make you feel inadequate if you doubt their claims, using your lack of confidence as a personal attack on their abilities. It’s crucial to detach yourself from emotions when making investment decisions and rely on sound judgement based on thorough research and analysis.

Rule Number 5: Con Artists Are Fair Weather Friends

Con artists are exceptionally friendly and attentive before you invest. They take a keen interest in you and promise great things about the investment. However, once they have your money, their contact dwindles or stops altogether. If you encounter difficulties in getting answers to your questions after investing, it may be a red flag indicating potential danger.

Rule Number 6: For Every Silver Lining, There Is A Cloud

Con artists often present investment opportunities that seem too good to be true. They make extravagant claims and guarantees of high returns without mentioning the associated risks. Trust your instincts when you encounter statements like “guaranteed returns” or “no way to lose money.” Be wary of investments that promise extraordinary returns without providing sufficient information to support their claims.

Rule Number 7: Watch Out For The Man From P.O.N.Z.I (Pay-Out Now, Zero Imminent)

Con artists frequently use Ponzi schemes, which bear Charles Ponzi’s name. In these schemes, initial investors are paid with funds from later investors to create the illusion of profitability. Eventually, the scheme collapses, leaving later investors with substantial losses. Beware of investments that promise high and guaranteed profits without providing written explanations or background information about the investment vehicle and its promoters.

Rule Number 8: Steer Clear Of Pyramid Schemes

Pyramid schemes operate similarly to Ponzi schemes, with money collected from new investors used to pay off existing participants. As the pyramid grows, individuals at the top benefit the most, while those at the bottom are left at a disadvantage. Unlike legitimate multi-level marketing plans, pyramid schemes prioritise recruitment over the sale of products or services. Be cautious of schemes that require excessive recruitment and downplay the importance of product sales.

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Financial Scammers

To safeguard yourself against financial scammers, it’s essential to take proactive measures and exercise due diligence when seeking financial advice or considering investment opportunities. Here are some important tips to consider:

1. Do Your Homework: Before investing, thoroughly research the investment vehicle and the person selling it.

2. Consult Trusted Sources: Reach out to reputable financial advisers with a proven track record. Seek independent advice from professionals to evaluate investment opportunities.

3. Request Written Information: Ask for comprehensive written information about the investment product, including financial data, risks, and the background of the company and its principals. A prospectus can provide valuable insights.

4. Question Everything: Don’t blindly accept claims or guarantees without proper evidence. Ask questions if something seems unclear or too good to be true. A legitimate advisor will be transparent and provide satisfactory answers.

5. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or you sense pressure to make quick decisions, step back and reassess. Take your time to analyse the investment opportunity and consult with trusted advisors before committing your funds.

6. Be Wary of High Returns: Exercise caution when promised unusually high returns, especially if the salesperson downplays or denies the existence of associated risks. Remember, every investment involves some level of risk.

7. Verify Background Information: Inquire about the background, education, work experience, and affiliations of the individual promoting the investment. Don’t hesitate to seek references or conduct additional research to validate their claims.

8. Avoid Emotional Decision-Making: Don’t let emotions cloud your judgement when making investment decisions. Rely on rational analysis and consider the long-term implications of your choices.

Protecting yourself from financial scams requires a proactive approach and a discerning eye when selecting a financial advisor and considering investment opportunities. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog, you can minimise the risk of falling victim to con artists and make informed financial decisions. Remember, your financial security is in your hands, and choosing your financial advisor wisely is a critical step towards safeguarding your hard-earned money.

Do you have money in investments that aren’t doing well? Get in touch if your portfolio is underperforming or you have received poor investment advice. There is no cost or commitment involved. With any luck, we’ll be able to make the appropriate corrections and get things back on track. Contact us if you have any questions.