EN
This article was first published by Financial Services and Markets Authority
During the past few weeks, the FSMA continued to receive complaints from consumers concerning new fraudulent online trading platforms that are operating in the Belgian market.
These trading platforms try to arouse consumers’ curiosity by placing scam ads on social media or online video platforms. In these fake ads, a (well-known) person often explains how to get rich quickly. Trading platforms also sometimes use mobile applications to lure victims. These fake ads or mobile applications often offer virtual currency, trading software, or a training course. After clicking on the ad or downloading the mobile app and having given their contact details, the victims are usually swiftly called by fraudsters presenting a concrete investment proposal (in shares, alternative investment products, virtual currencies, etc.). Other trading platforms contact consumers through dating apps and fake social media accounts.
The FSMA notes that several fraudulent trading platforms offer a so-called 'affiliate program' to consumers. These programs exhibit signs of a pyramid scheme.
These platforms act very aggressively. Scammers even try to persuade the victims to allow them to take control of their computers remotely in order to make certain money transfers. The fraudsters also try to convince the victims to invest increasingly higher amounts of money. They also make promises of repayment in exchange for one last money transfer. This is a technique to collect even more money from their victims.
Victims who agree to do so complain in particular about:
These are most likely cases of investment fraud. Fraudsters not only act without the necessary authorizations, but they also divert the invested funds. In such cases, investors are unable to recover their funds because these illegal service providers are generally located abroad.
***
Various new trading platforms have appeared on the internet in recent weeks.
The FSMA strongly advises against responding to any offers of financial services made by the following new trading platforms:
In order to avoid fraud, the FSMA addresses the following recommendations to investors:
More than ever, prudence is necessary. In case of any doubt, and before making any (more) payments, do not hesitate to contact the FSMA using the consumer contact form. As well, please feel free to notify it of any contact with a suspicious company that has not yet been the subject of a warning by the FSMA.
If you have been a victim of investment fraud, the FSMA advises you to file a complaint with the local police or with the judicial authorities.
Moreover, should fraudsters manage to take control of your computer, the FSMA recommends that you contact your bank and, if necessary, that you change your passwords.
***
For more recommendations aimed at avoiding investment fraud, the FSMA invites investors to consult the 'How to recognize and avoid fraud?' page on its website. Also, watch the new awareness campaign videos (available in French or Dutch only).
Image Source: Unsplash.com
